Lockout/tagout: preferred means of energy isolation; non cord-and-plug powered equipment.

OSHA requirements are set by statute, standards and regulations. Our interpretation letters explain these requirements and how they apply to particular circumstances, but they cannot create additional employer obligations. This letter constitutes OSHA's interpretation of the requirements discussed. Note that our enforcement guidance may be affected by changes to OSHA rules. Also, from time to time we update our guidance in response to new information. To keep apprised of such developments, you can consult OSHA's website at https://www.osha.gov.

March 22, 2000

Mr. John D. Weagraff, CSP
Safety Futures
60 Olde Maple Avenue
Fulton, NY 13069

Dear Mr. Weagraff:

Thank you for your November 12, 1999 letter to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration's (OSHA's) [Directorate of Enforcement Programs]. You have a question regarding acceptable work practices associated with the Control of Hazardous Energy Source (Lockout/Tagout) standard, 29 CFR §1910.147. Your scenario, questions, and our reply follow:

LOTO: Use of heavy-duty nylon cable ties as lockout devices in lieu of chains and locks.

Archive Notice - OSHA Archive

NOTICE: This is an OSHA Archive Document, and may no longer represent OSHA Policy. It is presented here as historical content, for research and review purposes only.

OSHA requirements are set by statute, standards and regulations. Our interpretation letters explain these requirements and how they apply to particular circumstances, but they cannot create additional employer obligations. This letter constitutes OSHA's interpretation of the requirements discussed. Note that our enforcement guidance may be affected by changes to OSHA rules. Also, from time to time we update our guidance in response to new information. To keep apprised of such developments, you can consult OSHA's website at https://www.osha.gov.

December 7, 2004

Mr. James Little
Safety Specialist
Georgia Gulf Lake Charles, LLC
1600 VCM Plant Road
Westlake, LA 70669

Dear Mr. Little:

Acceptability of modifying a standard on/off switch to provide lockout capability to a machine.

OSHA requirements are set by statute, standards and regulations. Our interpretation letters explain these requirements and how they apply to particular circumstances, but they cannot create additional employer obligations. This letter constitutes OSHA's interpretation of the requirements discussed. Note that our enforcement guidance may be affected by changes to OSHA rules. Also, from time to time we update our guidance in response to new information. To keep apprised of such developments, you can consult OSHA's website at https://www.osha.gov.

May 13, 2003

Mr. Thomas L. Jones
Senior Safety Consultant
Accordia
1014 Vine Street, Suite 1100
Cincinnati, Ohio 45202-1195

Dear Mr. Jones: