Scout's Toolbox Talks

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Toolbox Talk 4: Apply Lockout/Tagout to All Energy Sources — Not Just Electrical

When working on electrical equipment, you must isolate all energy sources — not just the obvious power feeds. OSHA 1910.333 and 1926.417 require full control of energy to prevent accidental startup.

Why It Matters:
Electrical systems often have more than one source of power. Backup generators, battery backups, control transformers, or even stored mechanical energy can cause equipment to re-energize unexpectedly, seriously injuring or killing workers.

Key Points:

• Identify all sources of electrical energy in your lockout plan, including secondary panels, battery systems, and emergency power.
• Apply lockout devices to each source — this might mean multiple locks for a single piece of equipment.
• Include stored energy (e.g., capacitors or mechanical springs) that must be discharged or restrained.
• Use a tag to clearly label why the equipment is locked out and who is responsible.
• Never assume one disconnect removes all power. Always verify.
• Review the site-specific LOTO procedures before starting.

✅ One missed energy source can be fatal.

Ask the Crew:

• Have we identified all power sources for today’s task?
• Did we apply lockout devices to every one of them?

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