Machine maintenance can expose workers to unexpected energization or the release of stored energy. In the United States, OSHA standard 29 CFR 1910.147 requires, within its scope, an energy-control program with procedures, training, and periodic inspections. This article uses the U.S. standard with its jurisdiction stated. Companies in Brazil must follow applicable Brazilian law, including relevant regulatory standards, and safety procedures set by qualified professionals.
A work order starts before the intervention
A fault description alone does not authorize work. Before execution, qualified people must identify hazards and energy sources, determine isolation, lockout, and verification procedures, and set the conditions for returning equipment to service. OSHA distinguishes authorized employees who apply lockout/tagout from affected employees, and requires communication about applying and removing devices within the standard's scope.
Record the correct asset and location, approved scope, responsible team, permits or documents required by the facility, and any coordination with operations and contractors. The work order helps prepare and track steps; it is not the energy-control procedure and does not prove the equipment is safe.
Coordinate crews, shifts, and contractors
OSHA specifically addresses shift changes and outside contractors. Within the standard's scope, it provides for coordination between the host employer and contractor about their procedures and continuity of protection as people change. In operations with several teams, a work order should make the coordinator, agreed interfaces, and handoff of responsibility visible in line with the local plan.
Do not reduce the process to a checkbox saying “locked out.” Records should point to the organization's controlled procedures and identify required evidence without storing sensitive safety information in unsuitable systems. The safety owner determines records and verifications for each machine and task.
Close only after the proper release
Separate repair completion from authorization to restart. Document the work performed, parts or materials where local policy requires them, deviations, open items, and the person who received the machine. The actual sequence for removing controls, notifying affected workers, and testing equipment must follow the approved procedure and applicable law; a user interface should not invent a universal sequence.
Use incidents, near misses, and recurring interventions to review planning with safety, maintenance, and operations. Tracking work orders shows whether actions were completed, but does not guarantee compliance or eliminate risk. For U.S. application, consult OSHA's text and guidance; in Brazil, consult the Regulatory Standards and qualified technical advice.
Sources
- 29 CFR 1910.147 — The control of hazardous energy (lockout/tagout)Occupational Safety and Health Administration, United States
These sources provide context for this guide. Applicable requirements depend on the activity, location, and current rules; consult the responsible authorities and qualified professionals.