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which can lead to missed updates and outdated procedures.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.