Myths about the lockout tagout system
Lockout-Target is the process of protecting the workplace and employees from the potential risk of release of hazardous energy from various damaging machines installed in the company. The procedure is a bit difficult to understand, especially for those who are new to the technique. The reason is that the process appears to be very complex and workers may find some irrelevant parts. Misunderstandings generated among the workforce turn into misconceptions and ultimately myths. The most popular myths circulating about the lockout tagout system are:
- OSHA regulations do not apply to all businesses
Many business managers think that their business is not subject to the regulations set by OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) because it is a small business and does not need to be regulated or is especially exempt from OSHA coverage. . All these theories are imprecise considering that the standards are applicable to all types of industries that contain machinery that is dangerous and can cause a catastrophe. The standards may have different names in different regions, but they all set similar guidelines for the industrial companies mentioned above to follow.
- OSHA regulations are not applicable for a particular device
In addition to doubts about the applicability of the standards in a particular company, there are also wild assumptions in the market that state that the regulations are not applicable for some specific devices. For example, several business managers think that if a machine has a “plug and cord” power supply, it is not harmful. Or if a machine is working from a significant period of time, that is, it is old compared to other built-in devices, it is not harmful. Such assumptions do not make sense considering that cases have been reported where machines with the ‘cord and plug’ power supply method released harmful energies even when the power was removed. And obsolescence does not guarantee safety. Until such time as potentially cataclysmic equipment is present in the workplace, safety regulations will apply.
- It is not necessary to apply OSHA regulations due to the clean track record of the company.
This very particular myth completely overturns the establishment of OSHA standards. That’s because there are companies galore where a disastrous accident has never happened. This does not mean that one should not take precautions. Especially in the case where hundreds and thousands of people work together and cannot be allowed to risk their lives.
LOTO safety helps reduce these risks to a great extent and makes workers feel safe and calm. OSHA requires timely audits of all equipment installed in all companies that conform to prescribed guidelines. Therefore, it is important to ignore these myths and implement the technique in your company as soon as possible.