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Lockout tagout tags are essentially warning devices. They typically come as rectangular cards that contain important information about lockout tagout procedures that are currently underway. 

These tags can come in different designs, but what they all have in common is that they communicate in very clear terms that the machine must not be operated at that time. They usually come in bright red and white, with the word “Danger” clearly printed on the front. While facilities can choose whichever tag design they like, it’s best to stick to just one tag design and keep it consistent to prevent confusion among employees.

Tags also typically have blank lines in front under the “Danger” label. Employees can write on these lines to include more information about the procedure, repairs, or servicing currently underway.

Facilities use lockout tagout tags to convey important information and let employees know that hazardous machines are currently being repaired or serviced. The tags inform and warn employees that the machines to which they are attached cannot be switched on or operated until the tags have been removed.

Usually, these tags have a grommet near the top so they can be easily attached to locks, hasps, machines, switches, and more. One tag will suffice per machine, but if multiple employees are working on the same machine, they can use their personal safety lock with their own tag attached.

Lockout tagout tags should always be placed with personal safety locks. The tags will let other employees know why a particular machine has been de-energized and is thus an important part of making sure that no machine will be re-energized too early. Information on the tags will also let others know which employees are currently working on a particular machine.

There are also other places with which lockout tagout tags can be attached:

· Facility areas

· Circuit breakers

· Plugs

· Battery backups

Lockout tagout tags must always have a “Danger” warning label. They will typically be white with black and/or bright red print on them. The tags must also have space for the following information:

· The name of the employee who installed the lock

· When the lock was installed

· Why the lock was installed

This information and the strategic placement of the tag are essential to making sure that the lockout tagout system works as effectively as it can.

In certain cases, it may be acceptable to only use tags instead of a combination of locks and tags. However, this is only acceptable if there is no possible way to physically install a lock on the machine.

As long as it’s possible to lock out a piece of equipment, tagout should always be done with lockout. While lockout is safer, the combination of locks and tags is essential in making sure that employees are protected against hazards in the workplace.

No. Locks are safer to use than tags because they can physically keep employees from accidentally re-energizing machines that are currently under maintenance or repair. OSHA also requires employers to ensure that employees understand that the purposes and functions of lockout tagout tags are limited.

There are some pertinent differences between lockout and tagout:

· Lockout

Lockout involves the use of locks to isolate hazardous energy. These locks are placed on switches, plugs, circuit breakers, valve handles, and the like. They keep employees from unintentionally or accidentally switching on machines and equipment that are currently being serviced.

These locks can physically stop other employees from re-energizing machines. However, locks typically don’t explain why a machine has been locked out and are not able to provide other information that other employees might need.

· Tagout

Tagout refers to the use and placement of tags to inform and warn employees that a machine is currently under maintenance or repair and should therefore not be switched on or energized. Tags essentially function as warning signs that tell unauthorized or unknowing employees that switching on a particular machine is dangerous at the moment.

While tags can present clear warnings, without locks, the tags can’t physically stop other employees from re-energizing a machine. Thus, tagout is not as safe as lockout.

Oftentimes, tags have holes on top wherein a zip tie can be inserted and then attached to the locked out machine/equipment. TRADESAFE safety inspection tags and LOTO tags have these holes. Furthermore, each 30-pack LOTO and safety tags also come with 30 pieces of zip ties so our customers no longer need to purchase the zip ties separately.

The main purpose of a safety inspection tag is to record all inspections being done towards a certain machine or equipment. Repairs and maintenance are a must to ensure that machines are working properly. Thus, periodic inspections are required to quickly detect any possible defects. Safety inspection tags affixed on the machine should show the inspection date and the inspector name so workers are aware if such machine was recently inspected and who is the person responsible for it.