The Importance of Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) Controls and Procedures:
Lockout/Tagout controls protect crew from dangerous equipment during maintenance and repair. Machines and equipment can seriously injure or even kill crew when not properly shut down or de-energized before service.
Comprehensive Lockout/Tagout procedures and practices are the only way to prevent unexpected startup or the release of hazardous energy.
According to OSHA, compliance with the Lockout/Tagout standard prevents approximately 120 deaths and 50,000 injuries each year. In addition, workers injured by hazardous energy on the job lose an average of 24 workdays for recuperation.
Lockout/Tagout isn’t just important when servicing equipment that seems the most hazardous. It’s essential to use Lockout/Tagout procedures every time they are called for. Electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, chemical, thermal, and other energy sources are all potential dangers.
When crew follow proper Lockout/Tagout procedures, they make sure the flow of energy stops while they carry out their work. Lockout procedures not only isolate equipment but also send a clear signal not to re-start the power until work is complete and everyone is safe.
Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) Regulatory Compliance
LOTO training is required for towing vessels subject to the Coast Guard’s Subchapter M regulations. The American Waterways Operators Responsible Carrier Program also requires training for companies using the RCP for their TSMS (Towing Safety Management System).
The OSHA standard for the control of Hazardous Energy Lockout Tagout for United States shipyard facilities is 29 CFR Part 1915.80 and 1915.89. And at OSHA compliant land-based facilities the standard is 1910.147.
Regardless of regulatory requirements, an effective LOTO process is imperative for safe operations aboard any type of commercial vessel.
Moxie’s Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) Awareness Safety Training Program
Make sure your crew understands, recognizes, and follows hazardous energy Lockout/Tagout control procedures. Moxie’s Maritime Lockout/Tagout Awareness program helps keeps your maritime crewmembers safe.
When your crew knows how to implement Lockout/Tagout procedures effectively, they can keep equipment in good condition, while protecting your crew.
This program discusses the importance of Lockout/Tagout practices for ensuring the safety of all crewmembers. Additionally, the program also provides a step-by-step guide to a proper Lockout/Tagout process. Specific topics include:
- Knowing When Lockout/Tagout Controls are Necessary
- Identifying the Various Sources of Energy
- Lockout/Tagout Job Safety Analysis
- Steps to the Lockout/Tagout Procedure
- Completing Warning Tags
- Special Circumstances That May Arise on the Vessel
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