Reference

A lockout/tagout padlock keeps an energy-isolating device off while equipment is serviced, and OSHA 29 CFR 1910.147(c)(5) defines exactly what that lock must be. This guide covers keyed-different, keyed-alike, and master-keyed options, body and shackle materials, group lockout, and a worked example of standardizing a facility lock program.

Lockout puts a physical lock on an energy-isolating device, while tagout adds only a warning tag with no restraint. OSHA 29 CFR 1910.147 treats lockout as the more reliable method and limits when tagout alone is allowed. This guide covers the difference, which one to use, the device families, and a worked six-step procedure.

Lockout/tagout is the OSHA-mandated procedure that keeps machines from starting while a worker is inside the danger zone. This guide walks through the six-step 1910.147 energy-control sequence in order, decodes the six hazardous energy types and how to isolate each, and covers group lockout, shift change, and lock-removal rules.