Lock-out Facilities & Procedures
To prevent the inadvertent activation of equipment or systems while others are working on it, switches and valves should be locked out with a lock-out device and padlock.
Standard Guidelines include:
- While the vessel Skipper or Engineer is ultimately responsible for ensuring that all lock-out procedures are adhered to. But ultimately the keys should be under the control of the person working on the machinery.
- Using "Warning" cards only, is not adequate.
- Lock-out equipment should be kept separately in a safe place, and properly maintained.
- All locks should be of a similar design. Locks should have designated keys – one lock, one key.
- Lock out all equipment with a latent ‘energy potential’ before work on it commences.
- Switch off electrical systems, close valves, etc. and use locks, chains, etc. to prevent inadvertent starting up of equipment / system.
- The operator is to keep the key to the lock on them at all times. Hang an “UNSAFE TO USE” card at the lock-out point.
- Before starting the job, release any stored energy in the system, and check safety and then only start job.
- When job is finished, remove lock-out and sign, check safety and start system up again.
- Use multiple locking units if two or more persons work on the same machine or electrical circuit. Each person must be able to separately lock out system.
