Maintenance Safety: Control Hazardous Energy First

Maintenance questions belong in every equipment enquiry. Machinery can retain hazardous energy during clearing, cleaning, adjustment or repair.

Make safety part of evaluation

OSHA’s lockout/tagout standard addresses the control of hazardous energy during servicing and maintenance. Buyers should request operating and maintenance documentation, identify who will service equipment, and establish site-specific safety procedures before use.

Useful questions to ask

• Which energy sources require isolation before maintenance?
• What operator training and protective measures are required?
• What maintenance documentation is provided for the model under review?

Reference: Occupational Safety and Health Administration, Control of Hazardous Energy.