The employee is required to place any body part into an area of the machinery or equipment where work is actually being performed upon the material being processed. Most people immediately think of electricity as a potentially hazardous energy source. There are other sources of energy, though, that can be just as hazardous. These energy sources include thermal, chemical, pneumatic, hydraulic, mechanical and gravitational. It is important to remember that all sources of energy that have the potential to unexpectedly startup, energize or release must be identified and locked, blocked or released before servicing or maintenance is performed.
Locks are to be used whenever possible.
Both locks and tags must clearly indicate the identity of the employee who applied the device. This provides positive identification about who is servicing the machinery and equipment. The locks and tags must be durable enough to withstand the environment in which they will be used. Information on the locks and tags must remain legible. Locks must be substantial enough to prevent removal without the use of excessive force.