How many of us do service or maintenance to fix something that we consider easy fix or just to save money? Whether it be at work or at home were always doing some sort of repair. When we’re doing repairs many times, we don’t consider the risk of doing them. 

Not taking the proper precautions while doing service or maintenance can be costly. It can cost no only money, but it can also cost you, your life. Numerous incidents have occurred involving machines and moving parts. 

 

https://www.djournal.com/news/business/osha-fines-corinth-company-for-safety-violations/article_7ac3e524-8619-589a-8682-ff249571a834.html 

 

https://www.ehstoday.com/safety/best-practices/state-federal-osha-lockout-tagout-1201

 

Cal/OSHA’s Title 8 section 3314 regulation requires that anyone doing repairs, service or maintenance use LOBOTO (Lock-out, Block-out, Tag-out). LOBOTO are procedures design to reduce the possibility of unexpected start up. LOBOTO is to be used when cleaning, repairing, servicing, setting-up, adjusting machines and equipment in which the unexpected energization or start-up of the machines or equipment, or release of stored energy could cause injury to employees.  

Cal/OSHA has also developed six steps to follow to protect employee while they do service or maintenance: 

  • Preparation for shutdown 
  • Equipment shutdown 
  • Equipment isolation 
  • Applying Lockout/Blockout/Tagout 
  • Controlling store energy 
  • Verification 

In conclusion, please make sure that you take proper steps to protect not only yourself, but others. 

For more information on this or any general safety question or concern please feel free to contact us at CSTC. Our team of knowledgeable instructors and inspectors are available to assist you.  
As always folks have a great and safe day.