If you are a LOTO fanatic, you most likely have heard the “rumor” that OSHA is considering some significant changes to the application of LOTO. These changes center around using “interlocks” in lieu of locking out the machine/equipment. In essence, there are some who are “lobbying” OSHA to allow interlocks to be used in situations other than “minor servicing”. Here is their Request for Information (RFI) proposal scheduled to be released in May of this year:
Recent technological advancements that employ computer-based controls of hazardous energy (e.g., mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, chemical, radiation) conflict with OSHA’s existing lock-out/tag-out standard. The use of these computer-based controls has become more prevalent as equipment manufactures modernize their designs. Additionally, there are international standards harmonization concerns since this method of lockout/tag-out is more accepted in other nations. The Agency has recently seen an increase in requests for variances for these devices. This RFI will be useful in understanding the strengths and limitations of this new technology, as well as potential hazards to workers. The agency may also hold a stakeholder meeting and open a public docket to explore the issue.
Source: https://www.reginfo.gov/public/do/eAgendaViewRule?pubId=201710&RIN=1218-AD00