Lockout Tags

A lockout tag, also known as a tag out tag, is a highly visible safety tag used to ensure the safe running and maintenance of site machinery. This critical tag is always employed when a lockout procedure is required, clearly indicating that energy isolating devices are in a safe position and must not be operated.

The lockout tags can be written on with essential details, including the date the lockout began, information regarding the issue, and who holds the key. These details are vital because the key holder is typically the only person authorised to remove the equipment lock out tag and give permission for the machine to be re-energised.

Benefits of Safety Lockout Tags

Using a safety lockout tag is fundamental to workplace safety, offering clear communication and legal protection when machinery is being serviced.

Safety and injury prevention: A lockout tag warns personnel not to operate equipment during maintenance, effectively preventing serious injury or death.
Regulatory compliance: Implementing a proper lock and tag procedure helps companies meet Australia’s stringent safety regulations and legal requirements.
Minimised financial costs: Preventing accidents reduces costly downtime, equipment damage, and associated legal and insurance expenses.
Improved productivity and accountability: Tag out labels clarify who is responsible for the lockout, speeding up maintenance processes and enhancing worker responsibility.

Types of Equipment Lock Out Tags

Equipment lock out tags are clearly worded to convey specific instructions and warnings during a lockout procedure:

Do not operate: Indicates that the machinery or equipment must not be started under any circumstances.
Do not switch off: Signals that the power must remain on, often for maintenance or testing purposes.
Do not switch on: Warns personnel that the equipment must remain de-energised for safety.
Electrician working: Notifies others that an authorised electrician is currently working on the system.
Equipment locked off: Confirms that the energy source has been physically isolated and locked for maintenance.

How to Apply Lock and Tag

Implementing a proper lock and tag procedure is essential for ensuring safety before servicing equipment. Here is the general procedure for safely applying a lockout tag in the workplace:

Prepare and notify: Inform all affected personnel about the upcoming shutdown.
Shut down and isolate: Turn off the machinery and isolate its energy source using the designated switch or valve.
Apply the lock: Apply the personal lockout device to the isolating mechanism to prevent accidental re-energisation.
Attach the tag: Securely attach the tag out tag to the lock, clearly stating the reason, date, and name of the person responsible.
Release stored energy: Dissipate any residual or stored energy, such as hydraulic pressure or springs, to eliminate potential hazards.
Test controls: Attempt to operate the normal controls to verify that the energy source has been completely isolated and cannot be started.
Perform maintenance: Once verified as safe, the authorised personnel can proceed with the required maintenance or repair work.
Restore equipment: After work is complete, remove the lock and tag and re-energise the machine safely.

Industrial Applications of Lock Tags

Lockout tags are crucial site safety products used across various industries, ensuring maintenance work can be performed safely on machinery.

Manufacturing

In the manufacturing industry, lock tags are vital during the repair or servicing of automated assembly lines and robotic equipment.

Maintenance teams often use "Do Not Operate" tag out labels to prevent machines from starting, safeguarding personnel from unexpected machine movement or energisation.

Food and Beverage Processing

The food and beverage processing sector relies on lockout tag procedures for cleaning and repair work on mixers, conveyors, and packaging equipment.

These safety lockout tags are often made from materials resistant to washdown chemicals, maintaining visibility and integrity in wet environments.

Oil and Gas

Lock tags are extensively used in the oil and gas industry during maintenance on pipelines, pumps, and refinery components.

Due to the presence of hazardous energy, detailed tag out labels are essential for clearly communicating the status of isolated valves and electrical sources in remote locations.

Construction

Lockout tags are applied to isolate power tools, electrical panels, and temporary generators before repairs on construction sites.

A clearly marked equipment lock out tag prevents accidental connection to power sources, which is critical for protecting workers from electrocution hazards.

Warehousing and Logistics

Warehousing and logistics facilities utilise lockout tags for servicing conveyor systems, hydraulic lifts, and loading dock equipment. A visible tag out tag indicates that a machine is undergoing repair, ensuring that equipment remains safely de-energised during maintenance activities.

How to Choose the Right Lockout Tag

Selecting the appropriate lockout tag is vital for effective safety and regulatory adherence in the workplace. Keep the following considerations in mind:

Device type: The correct tag form factor allows for proper, secure attachment to the isolating device, so ensure the tag matches the type of lockout device used.
Material: Choose a material that suits the environment. For example, for outdoor or chemical exposure, select a durable, weather-resistant plastic tag out label to prevent fading or tearing.
Identification: Tags should have ample space for vital information, including who performed the lock and tag procedure, the date, and the reason for the lockout. The padlocks should also have unique keys to ensure that only one individual can unlock it.
Compliance with regulations: Always verify that the safety lockout tag meets your industry safety standards and any specific site requirements.

Buy Safety Lockout Tags Online from RS Australia

RS Australia is a trusted supplier and distributor of safety lockout tags, offering a comprehensive selection of these critical safety essentials. With products sourced from reputable brands like Martindale, ABUS, Brady, and Penta, we ensure reliable and high-quality options for every workplace.

Beyond lockout tags, we also offer a wide variety of other site safety equipment, such as adhesive warning signs and electrical insulating mats, to meet all industrial workplace safety needs.

Browse our user-friendly online site to find the perfect lockout tag for your needs and have them shipped directly to your door. With our swift and flexible delivery options, you can expect your products to arrive right when you need them.

Find out more about our delivery times and fees on our delivery information page.