Equipment Locking and Tagging

DOE-STD-1039-93

required for normal operation. Functional testing prior to startup, and periodic surveillance

during operation, may be required for equipment that is subject to technical safety

requirements. Techniques for verifying component positions and additional information

concerning verification requirements are contained in DOE Order 5480.19, Chapter X,

"Independent Verification."

When alignment checklists have been completed, they should be signed and approved by

the operations supervisor. Completed checklists serve as documentation of the system and

equipment status and provide a basis for verification. They should be retained in an

accessible location until the next time the checklist is completed, at which time the

superseded checklist may be filed.

A system to track deviations from the normal alignment should be established. One method

commonly used for this purpose is the status board. Status boards typically contain a

graphic or schematic representation of the system, or a listing of system components. When

status changes are made, the status board is annotated to indicate the current status of

equipment. The status board (or other tracking system) should be promptly updated when

a change to system or equipment alignment occurs. In addition, all status changes should

be documented in the narrative log. DOE Order 5480.19, Chapter XI, "Logkeeping"

provides additional information for maintaining narrative logs.

The status board or other tracking system should be controlled by the operations supervisor

and designated system operators. The status control information recorded in the narrative

logs and reflected in updates to the tracking system should be incorporated into the

operations turnover process. DOE Order 5480.19, Chapter XII, "Operations Turnover,"

identifies elements of an effective turnover.

4.3 Equipment Locking and Tagging

Locking and tagging, or lockout/tagout, is a program for removing equipment from service

and establishing administrative controls to prevent its operation. It is used to ensure the

safety of workers performing maintenance or testing, and may be used for other purposes