Quick Answer
A lockout tagout station checklist should confirm that authorized employees can quickly access the locks, tags, hasps, lock boxes, device-specific lockout equipment, and written procedures needed to isolate hazardous energy before servicing or maintenance begins. OSHA requires an energy-control program with procedures, employee training, and periodic inspections for covered servicing and maintenance work.
The station is not the program by itself. It is the practical supply point that helps the program work consistently on the floor.
Lockout Tagout Station Checklist
| Area | What to Check | Useful Supplies |
|---|---|---|
| Written procedures | Confirm machine-specific energy-control procedures are current, accessible, and matched to actual equipment. | Procedure binders, wall document holders |
| Locks | Use durable, standardized, substantial, identifiable lockout devices reserved only for energy control. | Safety padlocks, keyed systems, lock labels |
| Tags | Tags should identify the person applying them and warn against operating or energizing the equipment. | Lockout tags, tag ties, tag stations |
| Hasps and group work | Stock hasps and lock boxes so each authorized employee can apply personal protection during group lockout. | Hasps, group lock boxes, lockout kits |
| Device coverage | Keep breaker, plug, valve, cable, and specialty lockout devices matched to the site equipment. | Breaker lockouts, valve lockouts, plug lockouts |
| Shift changes | Make sure supplies support orderly transfer of lockout protection between off-going and oncoming employees. | Transfer logs, tags, lock boxes |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using ordinary padlocks that are also used for toolboxes, lockers, or gates.
- Stocking tags without durable attachment means.
- Keeping written procedures in an office instead of near the work area.
- Missing specialty lockout devices for valves, plugs, or breakers that maintenance actually services.
- Letting contractors use a separate process without coordinating procedures.
FAQ
What must a lockout tagout program include?
OSHA requires an energy-control program made up of energy-control procedures, employee training, and periodic inspections.
When should lockout be used instead of tagout?
If an energy-isolating device is capable of being locked out, OSHA generally requires lockout unless the employer can demonstrate that tagout provides full employee protection equivalent to lockout.
What makes a LOTO tag acceptable?
Tags must be durable, standardized, substantial, identifiable, and warn against hazardous conditions if the machine or equipment is energized.
About Mick Chan
Mick Chan is part of the eSafetySupplies safety content team, helping translate workplace safety requirements into practical checklists that purchasing teams, supervisors, and crews can use when selecting PPE, signs, labels, tags, and facility safety supplies.
Final CTA
Build a practical lockout tagout station with safety padlocks, tags, hasps, group lock boxes, breaker lockouts, valve lockouts, plug lockouts, procedure holders, and replacement tag ties. eSafetySupplies can help standardize the supplies your authorized employees reach for before service work starts.
Sources
- OSHA 29 CFR 1910.147, The control of hazardous energy: https://www.osha.gov/laws-regs/regulations/standardnumber/1910/1910.147
- OSHA Control of Hazardous Energy standards page: https://www.osha.gov/control-hazardous-energy/standards