The Occupational Safety and Health Administration Standard 1910.147, the standard which
oversees lockout tagout, is infamous for its difficulty to understand, execute, and adhere to. This
is partially because it is so difficult to understand due to the deep nuances of lockout tagout, and
partially because properly created lockout tagout procedures are plant specific and could need to
be updated at any time and for any reason.
To help create effective lockout tagout procedures, many companies will hire lockout tagout
specialty firms, ensuring appropriate procedures are created. And while this solution ensures the
procedures created are OSHA compliant, it does nothing to help with the ongoing maintenance
needs.
Lockout tagout procedures need to be reevaluated every time a machine is replaced, a machine is
added, a machine is serviced, a machine is moved, or there are certain personnel changes. This
creates a situation where updates may need to be made on a very frequent basis for a short period
of time, then no updates may be needed for an extended period of time. For that reason, many
companies do not want to maintain an expensive, ongoing relationship with the lockout tagout
firm which creates the procedures. Instead, the safety team will attempt to manage it in-house,
which can lead to missed updates and outdated procedures.
Fortunately, there is now another option. Our Factory Solutions Software is an internet-based
application available anywhere the internet is. It helps you create your lockout tagout procedure
library, then allows you to update it at any time based upon your company’s needs. If the
changes require a change to the procedures, the program will let you know. If OSHA updates the
standard, the program will let you know. It allows you to remain in control of your procedures,
cutting your costs significantly, while giving you the oversight of a true lockout tagout specialty
firm.
If you have any questions about lockout tagout or our Factory Solutions Software, please leave a
comment. If you have anything to add about the importance of maintaining lockout tagout
procedures, please leave a comment.
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