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Perform Lock Out Tag Out Procedure using eAuditor

Lock Out Tag Out (LOTO) is a safety procedure used in workplaces to ensure that dangerous machines or equipment are properly shut off and cannot be accidentally turned on while maintenance or repair work is being performed. The procedure involves placing a physical lock or tag on the energy-isolating device (such as a circuit breaker, valve, or switch) to prevent the release of hazardous energy, which could lead to injury.

Performing a Lock Out Tag Out (LOTO) Procedure using eAuditor allows you to systematically document and track the process of safely shutting down equipment, ensuring that hazardous energy is isolated during maintenance. Here’s a step-by-step guide for conducting the procedure:

1. Set Up the Lock Out Tag Out Checklist in eAuditor

1. Download or Create a Template:
   • Search for a pre-made LOTO checklist in the eAuditor template library, or create a customized checklist based on your company’s safety procedures and equipment.
   • Ensure the checklist includes essential steps such as equipment shutdown, energy isolation, lockout/tagout application, verification, and safety checks.
2. Checklist Sections to Include:
   • Preparation: Identify the equipment and energy sources involved in the procedure.
   • Shutdown: Follow the necessary steps to turn off the equipment safely.
   • Lockout/Tagout: Apply locks and tags to energy-isolating devices.
   • Energy Isolation: De-energize and isolate all energy sources.
   • Verification: Test the equipment to ensure no residual energy remains.
   • Perform Maintenance/Repair: Once locked out, perform maintenance or repair work.
   • Restoration: Safely restore the equipment to its normal operation after completing the work.

2. Conduct the Lock Out Tag Out Procedure Using eAuditor

1. Open eAuditor:
   • Launch the eAuditor app and select the Lock Out Tag Out Procedure checklist you created or downloaded.
2. Identify the Equipment and Energy Sources:
   • Begin by identifying the machinery or equipment that needs to be locked out.
   • Record the specific energy sources (electrical, mechanical, pneumatic, etc.) for each piece of equipment.
3. Shutdown the Equipment:
   • Follow the machine’s operating procedures to power down the equipment safely.
   • Completely turn off the equipment before proceeding.
4. Apply Lockout/Tagout:
   • Place locks on all energy-isolating devices (e.g., circuit breakers, valves, switches) to prevent accidental activation.
   • Attach tags to the locks that clearly indicate the equipment is under maintenance and should not be operated.
5. Verify Energy Isolation:
   • Isolate and de-energize all energy sources.
   • Check that there is no residual energy (e.g., pressure, voltage) remaining that could activate the equipment.
   • Document the verification process using eAuditor’s features (e.g., photos, notes).
6. Perform Maintenance or Repair:
   • Once the lockout and tagout are confirmed, proceed with the maintenance or repair work on the equipment.
   • Ensure that all work is done safely with no risk of energy release.
7. Post-Work Restoration:
   • After completing the work, remove any tools or obstructions and check that the equipment is safe to operate.
   • Confirm that all safety checks have been completed before removing the locks and tags.

3. Document Findings Using eAuditor

• Take Photos:
  • Use eAuditor to take photos of the lockout/tagout process, including locks applied to energy-isolating devices, tags with the correct warnings, and equipment shutdown confirmation.
• Add Comments:
  • Document any specific issues or observations during the lockout process (e.g., challenges in isolating energy sources, safety concerns, etc.).
  • Ensure that all steps are followed and noted in detail.

4. Generate and Review the Report

• Generate a Detailed Report:
  • Once the procedure is completed, generate a Lock Out Tag Out Report through eAuditor.
  • The report will include all findings, photos, and documentation of each step of the LOTO process, including lockout and tagout verification, maintenance performed, and any issues encountered.
  • The report will also highlight any non-compliance or corrective actions if necessary.

5. Implement Corrective Actions if Needed

• If any issues were noted during the LOTO procedure (e.g., equipment malfunction, incorrect lockout), implement corrective actions immediately:
  • Repair or replace faulty lockout devices.
  • Ensure proper training for employees on lockout/tagout procedures.

6. Schedule Regular LOTO Inspections

• Use eAuditor to schedule regular Lock Out Tag Out inspections for future maintenance or repair activities:
  • Set reminders to perform LOTO on a routine basis.
  • Ensure that safety audits are regularly conducted to verify the effectiveness of the procedure.

Summary of Steps:

1. Set up the LOTO checklist for equipment shutdown, energy isolation, and lockout/tagout.
2. Conduct the LOTO procedure by safely isolating energy sources and applying locks/tags.
3. Document findings using eAuditor, including photos and notes.
4. Generate a report to review the procedure and corrective actions.
5. Implement corrective actions and schedule future inspections.

By using eAuditor for a Lock Out Tag Out Procedure, you can efficiently ensure that all safety steps are followed, that risks are minimized, and that the equipment is safely maintained and repaired without accidental activation.

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