The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) established the standard 29 CFR 1910.147, commonly known as the control of hazardous energy (lockout/tagout) standard, to protect workers from the dangers associated with the unexpected release of hazardous energy during servicing and maintenance activities. This standard is critical for maintaining a safe work environment, particularly in industries that involve machines and equipment powered by various energy sources.
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What is OSHA 1910.147 and What Does It Cover?
OSHA 1910.147, the control of hazardous energy standard, outlines the requirements for controlling hazardous energy during servicing and maintenance of machines and equipment. It covers practices and procedures for locking and tagging out energy isolating devices to prevent the release of hazardous energy. This includes energy sources such as mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, chemical, and thermal energy. The standard aims to protect workers from injuries caused by the unexpected startup of machines or the release of stored energy.
What Are the Key Requirements of OSHA 1910.147 for Employers?
Employers must adhere to several key requirements under OSHA 1910.147:
How Does OSHA 1910.147 Improve Workplace Safety?
Compliance with OSHA 1910.147 significantly enhances workplace safety by preventing injuries related to the release of hazardous energy. By implementing proper lockout/tagout procedures, employers can effectively control energy sources and prevent the unexpected startup of machines during servicing and maintenance. This reduces the risk of serious injuries, such as crushing, burns, electrocution, and amputations, thereby creating a safer work environment.
What Are the Common Violations of OSHA 1910.147, and How Can They Be Prevented?
Common violations of OSHA 1910.147 include:
What Are the Penalties for Non-Compliance with OSHA 1910.147?
Penalties for non-compliance with OSHA 1910.147 can be severe, including substantial fines, legal liabilities, and increased risk of workplace injuries. Fines can range from thousands to hundreds of thousands of dollars, depending on the severity and frequency of violations. Non-compliance not only endangers employees but also exposes employers to significant financial and reputational damage.
How Does OSHA 1910.147 Integrate with Other Safety Standards Like NFPA 70E?
OSHA 1910.147 integrates with other safety standards, such as NFPA 70E, to provide a comprehensive approach to electrical safety. While CFR 1910.147 focuses on controlling hazardous energy during servicing and maintenance, NFPA 70E addresses electrical safety in the workplace, including the procedures for working safely with electrical equipment. Together, these standards ensure that workers are protected from a wide range of hazards associated with both mechanical and electrical energy sources.
In conclusion, the CFR 1910.147 standard is essential for ensuring the control of hazardous energy in the workplace. By adhering to its requirements, employers can create a safer environment, prevent injuries, and avoid penalties associated with non-compliance. Implementing robust lockout/tagout procedures and integrating them with other safety standards like NFPA 70E will help maintain a comprehensive safety program that protects all employees.
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