Procedures for Lockout/Tagout

DOE-STD-1030-96

Tagout devices, including their means of attachment, shall be substantial enough to prevent

inadvertent or accidental removal. Tagout device attachment means shall be of a non-

reusable type, attachable by hand, self-locking, and non-releasable with a minimum

unlocking strength of no less than 50 pounds and shall have the general design and basic

characteristics of being at least equivalent to a one-piece, all-environment-tolerant nylon

cable tie.

All locking devices and tags used in individual-controlled lockouts/tagouts must identify the

person applying them and the organization. This requirement can be met by always tagging

each lockout device, and always identifying the individual and organization on each tag. In

centrally controlled lockouts/tagouts, the tag should be uniquely identified (numbered),

should identify the component and the required position, and should identify the persons

placing and verifying the tag.

Tagout devices must clearly warn that operation is not permitted (for example, "Danger, Do

Not Operate"). These tagout devices should never be used on equipment that is energized

or in-service.

4.4 Procedures for Lockout/Tagout

Facilities are required to use administrative procedures to ensure uniformity in applying

their lockout/tagout program. In addition, each lockout/tagout, unless exempted in

accordance with Section 4.1.4 of this guide, requires a specific written technical procedure

in which the isolation points and other instructions for installing and removing tags are

identified. The technical procedures containing lockout/tagout instructions can be

developed in any one of the following three ways:

Maintenance procedures may identify the isolation and tag locations required for a job

or for a piece of equipment. In centrally controlled facilities, development of these

procedures should involve operations personnel to ensure that the protection is adequate

and that other systems or equipment are not inadvertently affected.

Operating procedures may be prepared and approved in advance for isolation of

specific systems or equipment.

Lockout/tagout instructions may be prepared and approved by the responsible

supervisor or manager to meet a specific work requirement.