Lock Out Tag Out Safety Practices

SHUT IT DOWN, LOCK IT OUT...CHECK IT!

Just as PPE items such as hard hats, safety glasses, and proper work shoes are elementary standards on the job, effective lockout / tagout practices are critical elements in the shared safety process. Many large corporations and quality contractors implement excellent lockout/tagout programs that protect workers when the unexpected happens. According to OSHA, these practices prevent an estimated 120 fatalities and 50,000 injuries each year. However, it is just as important to properly follow through to the next step after the valve has been closed, the breaker locked, or the switch opened. Workers must check to make sure the system is de-energized and that any possible moving parts are properly chocked to prevent movement of fans, hydraulic presses, etc. Many electrical systems have power and control power feeds which both must be turned off.

The reality is that lockout/tagout might not always be foolproof, and many systems in the field – piping, electrical, etc. – are sometimes improperly marked, or not marked at all. There have been a few recent incidents reported around the country where the wrong valve or breaker was turned off, or energy was not properly checked. Thankfully no one was seriously injured, but these incidents serve an important reminder that the most important step in the lockout/tagout process often occurs after the fact: making sure it’s OFF.

R. Baker & Son All Industrial Services complies with lockout / tagout practices, as well as all other OSHA rules and regulations, on all our projects.   We hope you find this article informative.

About R. Baker & Son All Industrial Services

R. Baker & Son All Industrial Services is the premier specialized contractor in the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico.  The Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses (SDVOSB) has been in business since 1935, has over 100 employees, an exemplary safety record (We have been directly involved in four (4) sites that received VPP OSHA Safety Awards) and is financially strong (bonding capabilities over $10 Million).  Capabilities include industrial and commercial demolition, rigging, machinery & plant moving, dismantling, decommissioning, plant and equipment relocation, interior demolition, wrecking, selective demolition , demolition contractors in NJ and warehousing.

R. Baker & Son All Industrial Services
1 Globe Street
Red Bank, NJ 07701
Phone: 732-222-3553
Fax: 732-450-0311
Website: www.rbaker.com

For more information visit our website or contact Art Sferlazzo, at art@rbaker.com