Lockout / Tagout Definitions

Capable

An energy isolating device will be considered capable of being locked out if:

1. It is designed with a hasp or other attachment to which a lock can be  affixed or a locking mechanism is built into it that allows isolation of  the energy source.
2. Lockout can sometimes be achieved without the need to dismantle, or  permanently alter the energy isolating device. For example, some valves  and breakers are not designed to be locked, but they can be secured with  chains, pins, blocking braces or wedges, all of which can be locked out.

Energy Isolating Device

A mechanical device that physically prevents the transmission or release of energy. Examples include an electrically operated circuit breaker, an electrical disconnect, a process block valve, a line blank in a flange, or removal of a spool piece/pipe section, etc.

Hydraulic or Hydrostatic Pressure:

Energy potential in pipelines, such as pump pressure or hydrostatic heads on process material lines, must have blind flanges or pancakes installed and/or the lines are to be disconnected. This applies to inlet and outlet lines that are connected to blowers, pumps, etc., that are being locked out.

Multiple Energy Sources

Some types of equipment or systems will have more than one type of energy release potential. A system, such as a refrigeration system or drying system, may include a number of pieces of equipment which may be difficult to separately isolate. Great care must be taken, each and every time lockout/tagout is used, to ensure that all energy sources are effectively deenergized or isolated.