29 CFR 1910.147 is the Occupational Safety and Health Administration's (OSHA) standard for the control of hazardous electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, chemical, thermal or other energy LOTO in general industry. The purpose of this standard is to establish procedures and requirements for the control of hazardous energy when employees are engaged in the servicing or maintenance of machines or equipment or when workers are exposed to other sources of hazardous energy during their work.
The 29 CFR 1910.147 standard outlines the minimum requirements for controlling hazardous energy LOTO and requires employers to develop, implement, and enforce an energy control program. This program includes a written energy control procedure, employee training, and periodic inspections to ensure effectiveness.
The standard also requires LOTO devices to control hazardous energy sources. The LOTO devices must be specifically designed for the equipment or machinery being serviced, and the devices must be used in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions to perform servicing or maintenance of equipment.
29 CFR 1910.147 applies to all general industry employers who perform maintenance or servicing activities on machines or equipment that could potentially release hazardous energy, including electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, chemical, thermal, and other forms of energy.
OSHA's 29 CFR 1910.147 standard is essential for ensuring worker safety and preventing accidents caused by the unexpected startup or release of hazardous energy during servicing or maintenance activities. Therefore, employers must comply with the standard to protect workers from injury and avoid OSHA penalties and fines.
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What is the Scope and Application of 29 CFR 1910.147?
The standard applies to the control of hazardous energy during the maintenance and service activities of machines and equipment. It covers practices and procedures necessary to disable machinery or equipment, preventing the release of potentially hazardous energy while employee performing the servicing. The scope includes all forms of energy, such as mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, chemical, thermal, or other energy sources, that could cause harm if not properly controlled.
What are the Definitions of Key Terms in 29 CFR 1910.147, such as "Authorized Employee" and "Affected Employee"?
Understanding key terms is essential for compliance with the standard:
What are the Requirements for Energy Control Procedures under 29 CFR 1910.147?
Employers must develop, document, and use specific energy control procedures to ensure the control of hazardous energy. These procedures should include:
What Training and Communication are Required by 29 CFR 1910.147?
Training is a critical component of the standard, ensuring that all employees understand and can implement the energy control procedures:
What are the Periodic Inspection Requirements of 29 CFR 1910.147?
To ensure ongoing compliance and effectiveness of the energy control program, periodic inspections are required:
In compliance with 29 CFR 1910.147, it is essential for an authorized employee performing maintenance tasks on machinery to follow strict lockout/tagout procedures, especially when dealing with connected electric equipment. This includes machinery that is cord and plug connected, ensuring that all energy sources are properly isolated before any work begins. Tasks such as lubrication, cleaning, or unjamming are considered minor servicing activities, but they must still adhere to safety protocols if they are not routine, repetitive, and integral to the use of the equipment. By following these guidelines, the risk of accidental energy release is minimized, safeguarding employees during maintenance operations.
OSHA's 29 CFR 1910.147 standard is vital for ensuring workplace safety by preventing the unexpected energization or start up of machines and equipment. By understanding the scope, definitions, energy control procedures, training, and inspection requirements, employers can develop effective LOTO programs to protect their workers from potentially hazardous energy. Compliance with this standard not only enhances safety but also improves operational efficiency and reduces liability for employers. Investing in a robust LOTO program is essential for maintaining a safe and productive work environment.
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