Lockout/tagout of machinery may not be a very familiar practice to you, but it is very important to carry it out to ensure the safety of the work area and operators.
Lockout physically ensures that a machine cannot be operated, either because it is under maintenance or repair, and tagout communicates to operators and workers that maintenance and repairs are being carried out through tags.
In Mexico, there are two standards that require lockout/tagout within a work area:
NOM-029-STPS-2005 - Maintenance of electrical installations Establishes the safety conditions for carrying out maintenance activities on electrical installations in workplaces.
NOM-004-STPS-1999 - Protection systems and safety devices in machinery and equipment Establishes the safety conditions and protection systems and devices to prevent and protect workers against work risks generated by the operation and maintenance of machinery and equipment.
Failure to comply with these standards can result in fines, not to mention the most important thing: the life and well-being of workers. For a successful lockout/tagout system, the following should be done:
Program: Develop and document a program for equipment energy control.
Machine procedures: It is important to document the procedures for identifying equipment and machines.
Identify and mark energy isolation points: Locate and identify all energy control points; valves, switches, and plugs with tags or cards.
Training and periodic inspection: Employee training is key, with periodic inspections ensuring safety efforts.
Provide adequate lockout devices: Provide the correct lockout elements corresponding to each machine.
Sustainability: Review the implemented program to create a culture of safety and prevention, as well as consider costs and maintenance to reduce upgrade expenses.
In Figure 1, we share a checklist for you to review and start implementing the ideal solutions.
In Figures 2 and 3 you can find lockout and signaling devices that may be useful depending on what your workshop or factory needs. At INCOM we can advise you to find the best solution, do not hesitate to contact us at telemarketing@incom.mx or via WhatsApp at +52 55 30 32 73 32..
