What are the requirements for the use of tagout devices when lockout devices are capable of being used?

• The tags are attached where the lockout devices would be [29 CFR 1910.147(c)(3)(i)].

• The employer demonstrates that the tagout will provide protection at least as effective as locks and will assure full employee protection [29 CFR 1910.147(c)(3)(i)].

How does an employer demonstrate that the protection achieved using the tagout program is equivalent to the level of safety obtained by using a lockout program?

The employer must comply with all tagout-related provisions and also use additional safety measures that provide a level of safety equivalent to that obtained by using lockout. This might include removing and isolating a circuit element, blocking a controlling switch, opening an extra disconnecting device, or removing a valve handle to reduce the potential for any inadvertent energization while the tags are attached [29 CFR 1910.147(c)(3)(ii)].