How to choose and use Lockout&Tagout Kit Well?
Lockout kits are used to safely isolate energy sources on machinery during maintenance or repair, preventing accidental startup and injury. To use a lockout kit safely, first, identify all potential energy sources and ensure the machinery is completely shut down. Then, select the appropriate lockout devices (like circuit breaker lockouts, valve lockouts, or hasps) and apply them to each energy-isolating device, ensuring they are securely fastened. Finally, apply a personal lock and tag to each device, clearly indicating that work is in progress and the machinery is not to be operated.
How to Choose the Right Lockout Kit for Your Needs?
1. Identify Your Application
Automotive Use: If you need to unlock vehicles, opt for kits with air wedges, trim sticks, and long-reach tools to manipulate door mechanisms without damage1.
Industrial/Electrical Use: For machinery, prioritize circuit breaker locks, valve lockouts, and multi-purpose hasps to secure energy sources.
2. Check Kit Contents
A good lockout kit should include:
✔ Padlocks & Keys (with unique keys for authorized personnel)
✔ Lockout Hasps (for group lockout procedures)
✔ Circuit Breaker Lockouts (for electrical panels)
✔ Valve Lockouts (for hydraulic/pneumatic systems)
✔ Tags & Warning Labels (to indicate lockout status)
3. Compliance & Safety Standards
Ensure the kit meets OSHA 1910.147 (U.S.) or ISO 14118 (international) standards.
Look for durable, non-conductive materials (e.g., reinforced nylon for electrical safety).
4. Ease of Use & Versatility
Adjustable devices (for different breaker sizes or valve types).
Color-coded locks (to distinguish users or departments).
Compact storage (for portability in toolkits).
5. Brand & Reliability
Choose reputable brands (e.g., Brady, Master Lock, Dorman for automotive kits1) with proven durability.
How to Use a Lockout Kit Safely?
1. Preparation
Identify Energy Sources: Determine all types of energy (electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, mechanical, etc.) that need isolation.
Notify Affected Employees: Inform all relevant personnel about the lockout procedure.
Review Procedures: Follow company-specific LOTO policies or OSHA/ISO standards.
2. Shut Down the Equipment
Turn Off Normally: Use the standard shutdown procedure for the machine or equipment.
Ensure Complete Stop: Verify that all moving parts have come to a complete halt.
3. Isolate Energy Sources
Disconnect Electrical: Use circuit breaker locks, plug locks, or switch locks.
Block Fluid/Gas Lines: Use valve locks for hydraulic/pneumatic systems.
Release Stored Energy: Bleed residual pressure, discharge capacitors, or lower suspended parts.
4. Apply Lockout Devices
Attach Locks: Use hasps, padlocks, or other devices to physically prevent re-energization.
Use Tagout if Needed: If a lock can’t be used, apply a durable tag with a warning (e.g., "Do Not Operate").
Single Key/Combination: Only the authorized employee should have access to the lock.
5. Verify Zero Energy State
Test Start-Up: Attempt to activate the equipment to ensure it’s truly de-energized.
Use Test Equipment: Multimeters, pressure gauges, etc., to confirm no residual energy.
6. Perform Maintenance/Servicing
Work Safely: Proceed with repairs while ensuring locks remain in place.
Avoid Bypassing Locks: Never remove another worker’s lock without authorization.
7. Restore Equipment
Inspect Work Area: Ensure tools are removed, guards are reinstalled, and employees are clear.
Remove Locks/Tags: Only the person who applied them should remove them.
Re-Energize Properly: Follow startup procedures and notify affected personnel.
Lita Lock, a China based manufacturer, since 2017, active in manufacturing safety padlocks, electrical lockout, valve lockout, lockout station, tags and other lockout & tagout for global partners.
To help customers compliance with OSHA Standard 29 CFR 1910.147, Lita Lock does not only offer design, production and final assembly, but also a complete lockout & tagout solution for various industries.
Lita Lock pursues the competitiveness on creative, quality control, technology and sustainable development. As the founder of Lita Lock, Iris Chen says: “Many things have changed, but one thing that has not—our original intention to start businesses: keeping workers safe.” Together, we make work environments safer.
Sales Manager: Iris Chen
Email: iris@litalock.com
Whatsapp: + 86 13165872593
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