The IRSST has recently published a technical data sheet that provides companies with a means of verifying the content of a lockout program. Lockout is defined as placing a lock or tag on an energy-isolating device following an established procedure, indicating that the energy-isolating device is not to be operated until the removal of the lock or tag following an established procedure.
A lockout program should guide supervisors and employees on what is expected of them. A written program establishes the company’s general policies and procedures for implementing lockout and sets specific performance requirements for employees. It also provides the mechanism for regulatory compliance. The written program addresses the program’s purpose, scope, and application, defines key terms, prescribes the responsibilities of managers, supervisors, and employees for implementing the program elements, and outlines general lockout rules and procedures.