OSHA's Lockout Tagout Procedure

Gain a better understanding of Lockout-Tagout regulatory and training requirements, and best practices to prevent injuries and fatalities.

Fatalities and serious injuries occur commonly in both construction and general industry workplaces, arising from failure to lockout/tagout (LOTO) properly when performing repairs and maintenance work. OSHA has enforced its general industry LOTO Standard (29 CFR 1910.147) aggressively, and it was the sixth most cited standard in FY 2023. Hazards include not only electrocution, but also crushing injuries if hydraulic or other stored energy is not addressed before work commences. The requirements are arduous and entail documented training, unique PPE and protocols, and have differing mandates depending upon which sector is involved. Moreover, complex OSHA policies like the Minor Servicing Exemption can complicate the determination of when LOTO is required in manufacturing and other settings. OSHA also can cite both the host employer and any onsite contractors where employees are exposed to unmitigated LOTO hazards, with penalties of up to $161K (OSHA) per exposed employee under the agency's 'IBI' enforcement policy. This session will provide the most current guidance from OSHA, basic regulatory and training requirements, and best practices to prevent injuries and fatalities, and to avoid costly citations.

Faculty

Adele L. Abrams, Esq., ASP, CMSP

Law Office of Adele L. Abrams P.C.