710 Energy Control Program (Lockout/Tagout)

4.2 The Purpose of Periodic Inspections...................................................................................

The purpose of periodic inspections is to ensure that the energy control procedures continue to be
implemented properly, workers are familiar with their responsibilities and any deviations or procedural
inadequacies that are observed are corrected. The inspection should determine if:

1. workers are following the written procedure and


2. the procedure is correct.

Reviewing a Lockout/Tagout Procedure

If the inspection covers a procedure for equipment with an energy-isolating device that can be locked
out, the inspector should review the procedure with the workers who use it to service the equipment
and affected employees who operate the equipment. The inspector can review the procedure with the
workers individually or in a group.

2. What is listed as one of the purposes of periodic inspections?

a. Keep workers in compliance with OSHA

b. Determine if workers are following procedures

c. Reduce OSHA fines and penalties

d. Keep upper management happy

4.3 Periodic Inspection Requirements

As we mentioned earlier, an authorized employee who is not involved in the energy control procedure
should inspect the area on an annual basis. The employer must identify any deficiencies or deviations
and correct them.

• Where lockout is used, the inspector must review each authorized employee's responsibilities
  under the procedure with that employee (group meetings are acceptable).


• Where tagout is used, the inspector must review both the authorized and affected employee's
  responsibilities with those workers for the energy control procedure being inspected, and the
  additional training responsibilities.