What Is The LOTO Safety System For The Packing Machine
Lockout-tagout (LOTO) is a safety procedure that is used in industry and research settings to ensure that machines are properly shut off and not started up again prior to the completion of maintenance or repair work. It requires that hazardous energy sources be "isolated and rendered inoperative" before work is started on the equipment in question.
Here's a brief overview of the methods and tools typically used in a lockout-tagout system:
Methods:
1. Preparation: The worker should understand the type and magnitude of the energy, its hazards, and the methods to control it.
2. Shutdown: The machine or equipment should be turned off or shut down using the procedures established for it.
3. Isolation: All energy-isolating devices that are needed to control the energy to the machine or equipment must be physically located and operated in such a way as to isolate the machine or equipment from the energy source(s).
4. Lockout or Tagout Device Application: Lockout devices, tagout devices, or both, are attached to energy-isolating devices by authorized employees.
5. Stored Energy Check: If there is a possibility of re-accumulation of stored energy to a hazardous level, verification of isolation should be continued until the servicing or maintenance is completed, or until the possibility of such accumulation no longer exists.
6. Verification of Isolation: Before starting work on machines or equipment that have been locked out or tagged out, the worker should verify that isolation and de-energization of the machine or equipment have been accomplished.
Tools:
1. Locks: Locks are used to secure energy-isolating devices in a position that prevents energizing a machine or equipment. Each lock should only have one key, and that key should be in the possession of the person who installed the lock.
2. Tags:Tags are used in conjunction with locks to provide extra security. They contain warnings and information such as the reason for the lockout, the person who installed it, and the time it was installed.
3. Lockout Devices: These are devices that use a positive means such as a lock, either key or combination type, to hold an energy-isolating device in a safe position and prevent the energizing of a machine or equipment.
4. Tagout Devices: These are prominent warning devices that can be fastened to an energy-isolating device in a manner that provides the equivalent safety available from the use of a lockout device.
5. Lockout/Tagout Kits: These are often portable and contain all the necessary items to perform a lockout/tagout, such as locks, tags, and lockout devices.
6. Lockout/Tagout Stations: These are fixed stations where lockout/tagout equipment is stored. They are usually located in areas where lockout/tagout procedures are often performed.
7. Group Lockout Devices: These are used when multiple employees are working on the same equipment. Each employee attaches their own lock to the device, ensuring that the equipment can't be re-energized until all locks are removed.
Remember, each lockout/tagout situation may require a unique approach and the appropriate tools and methods should be used based on the specific equipment and energy sources involved.、