Electrical Breakers Lockout
| Purpose |
To ensure the safety of all Workers by preventing accidental energization of electrical circuits while performing construction work. |
| Definition |
The process of physically isolating electrical energy by switching circuit breakers to the “OFF” position and securing them with approved lockout devices to prevent accidental or unauthorized re-energization during work activities. |
| Hazards
This list of potential hazards is not comprehensive. Workers are required to complete a Hazard Assessment prior to starting this task to ensure all hazards are identified and controlled.
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Physical:
- Electric shock
- Arc Flash and Arc Blast causing burns and pressure injuries (skin, eye or eardrum)
- Fire
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| Controls |
Engineering:
- Lockout devices (padlocks, multi lock hasps, tags)
Administrative:
- Lockout procedure
- Tag out tags
- Fire Safety Plan
- Training/qualified workers
Personal Protective Equipment:
- Task-Specific PPE: CSA/ANSI approved safety footwear, safety eyewear, insulated gloves
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| Work Site Supervisory Responsibility |
Do
- Ensure lockout devices and tags are available onsite.
- Confirm that only qualified electricians perform lockout procedures on main panels.
- Communicate lockout status during daily toolbox meetings.
- Support enforcement of the lockout procedure.
Do not
- Tamper with lock or tags or allow unauthorized Workers to alter or temper the locks or tags.
- Allow unauthorized or untrained Workers to perform electrical work, including lockouts.
- Assign work on circuits without confirming trades have and utilize lockout procedures.
- Allow trades to use panel doors or tape as lockout substitutes.
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| Worker Responsibility |
Do
- Wear required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) at all times.
- Identify the breaker to be locked out before starting work.
- Use only approved breaker lockout devices and personal padlocks.
- Attach a completed tag to the lockout device.
- Test the circuit to confirm it is de-energized before beginning work.
- Keep the key for your lock in your possession at all times.
- Remove your lock and tag immediately upon completion of the work.
Do not
- Perform electrical work or attempt the lock out procedure if not an electrician.
- Work on any circuit unless it is locked out and verified de-energized.
- Share padlock keys with other workers.
- Remove another worker’s lock or tag.
- Ignore proper testing procedures – always test to verify the circuit is de-energized before performing work on the circuit.
- Use makeshift devices (tape, wire, zip ties) in place of approved lockout equipment.
- Bypass or disable safety devices to speed up work.
- Assume a circuit is safe just because the breaker is off, you must always follow proper de-energization and verification steps.
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