Scout's Toolbox Talks

Never work on energized electrical systems without first locking them out — it's not optional, it’s OSHA law.
OSHA 1910.333 and 1926.417 require that all electrical systems be de-energized, locked out, and tagged before any employee performs work where contact with energized parts is possible.

Why It Matters:
Electricity can’t be seen or smelled — but it kills quickly. Workers have been seriously injured or killed while assuming a circuit was off. Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) ensures no one can accidentally energize a system during maintenance or installation.

Key Points:

• Always shut off and isolate electrical energy before starting work.
• Apply a lock and a tag with the worker’s name and contact info.
• Only qualified and authorized workers may apply or remove locks.
• Test the system after locking out to ensure no voltage is present (try-before-touch).
• Group lockout? Use a lockbox system to maintain control and accountability.
• Never bypass a lock or remove someone else’s tag — even briefly.

✅ Lockout/Tagout protects everyone. No shortcuts.

Ask the Crew:

• Are all circuits de-energized before work begins?
• Do we know who is authorized to apply and remove LOTO devices?

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