OSHA Definition
Per OSHA 1910.147(b), a tagout device is a prominent warning device, such as a tag and a means of attachment, which can be securely fastened to an energy isolating device in accordance with an established procedure, to indicate that the energy isolating device and the equipment being controlled may not be operated until the tagout device is removed.
Device Requirements
Tagout devices must:
- Include a warning legend such as "Do Not Start," "Do Not Open," "Do Not Close," "Do Not Energize," or "Do Not Operate"
- Be non-reusable, attachable by hand, self-locking, and have a minimum unlocking strength of 50 pounds (equivalent to a one-piece nylon cable tie)
- Withstand weather, wet, and damp conditions without deterioration or becoming illegible
- Not deteriorate in corrosive environments such as acid or alkali areas
- Be standardized in print and format within the facility
- Identify the employee who applied the device
