10 tips for lockout/tagout in the grain industry [Infographic]

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Grain handling can be a dangerous industry, conveyors, elevators and other pieces of moving equipment pose serious hazards to workers. Lockout/tagout is a safety procedure used in industry to ensure that dangerous machines are properly shut off and not started up again before maintenance or repairs are completed. Feed & Grain's latest infographic covers the OSHA's Lockout/Tagout guidelines.

1: Establish and implement a lockout/tagout program: Develop a written program that outlines the procedures, policies, and responsibilities for lockout/ tagout in your facility.

2: Conduct a hazard assessment: Identify all the equipment and machinery that requires lockout/tagout, and assess the potential hazards associated with each piece of equipment.

3: Train employees: Ensure that all employees are trained on the lockout/tagout program and understand the hazards and procedures involved.

4: Use standardized procedures: Develop standardized procedures for lockout/tagout, and ensure that they are followed consistently across the facility.

5: Verify energy isolation: Verify that energy sources have
been isolated and are in a zero energy state before lockout/tagout devices are applied.

6: Use lockout/tagout devices: Use appropriate lockout/tagout devices that are durable, standardized, and easy to use.

7: Implement periodic inspections: Regularly inspect lockout/tagout devices, procedures, and equipment to ensure that they are working properly and being used correctly.

8: Review and update the program: Review the lockout/tagout program periodically and update it as necessary to ensure that it reflects changes in equipment, procedures, or regulations.

9: Provide equipment specific instructions: Provide equipment-specific lockout/tagout instructions for each piece of equipment, including steps for shutting down, isolating, and securing the equipment.

10: Provide feedback and encourage participation: Encourage employees to provide feedback on the lockout/tagout program and participate in continuous improvement efforts.