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Mountain Home Air Force Base, ID

Hazardous Energy Control

The primary objective of this page is to provide safety information on Hazardous Energy Control to include regulatory requirements, general guidance and procedures to eliminate unexpected energizing, start-up, or release of stored energy that can cause serious injury or death. This page is not all inclusive and the DAFMAN 91-203, Chapter 21, Hazardous Energy Control, 29 CFR 1910.147, The Control of Hazardous Energy (lockout/tagout) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration webpage on Hazardous Energy Control are the sole sources for compliance. Conflicts in compliance between this page and compliance sources, DAFMAN 91-203 and OSHA 29 CFR 1910.147 will be followed.

Overloaded Circuit

What is Hazardous Energy?

Energy sources including electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, chemical, thermal, or other sources in machines and equipment can be hazardous to workers. During the servicing and maintenance of machines and equipment, the unexpected startup or release of stored energy can result in serious injury or death. Develop and document specific procedures for each piece of equipment identified in the hazardous energy control program. 

Graphic Do I need a HEC program?

 

The flowchart is a good start in determining whether you need a Hazardous Energy Control program. If you have answered “yes” or are still unsure, then consult your installation safety office to develop an effective program that includes training, procedures, lockout devices, and periodic inspections.

Airman working on electrical panel

Electrically Safe Work Condition

NFPA 70E requirements for safe work practices to protect personnel by reducing exposure to major electrical hazards. The NFPA 70E helps companies and employees avoid workplace injuries and fatalities due to shock, electrocution, arc flash, and arc blast, and assists in complying with OSHA 1910 Subpart S and OSHA 1926 Subpart K.

Airman using an electrical gauge

Self-Inspections

Shop hazardous energy control program periodic inspections shall be conducted by authorized employees, one acting as an inspector and one performing the maintenance/servicing activity, at least annually, to ensure compliance with all program elements.

AF Form 983 HEC

Lockout/Tagout

The use of AF Form 983, Danger - Equipment Lockout Tag, should be used for identification of equipment and machinery for which the hazardous energy control applies, and singularly keyed with only authorized employees retaining keys to the locks when in use.