OSHA Lockout/Tagout Standard exempts traditional lockout methods if access to hazardous energy sources or moving machine parts are routine, repetitive and integral to the use of the equipment for production, provided that the work is performed using alternative measures which provide effective protection (such as interlocked guards). Outlined are risk assessment methods in ANSI Z244.1 to evaluate whether alternative methods will provide proper protection to the worker.
Traditional lockout applies to, but is not limited to, activities such as, erecting, installing, constructing, repairing, adjusting, inspecting, unjamming, setting up, trouble-shooting, testing, cleaning, dismantling, servicing and maintaining machines, equipment or processes. When these tasks are routine, repetitive, and integral to the production process, or traditional lockout/tagout prohibits the completion of those tasks, alternative methods of control may be used. Task which meet the definition of "routine, repetitive, and integral to the production process" generally exhibit the following characteristics:
