Electrical lockout kits are an essential part of ensuring safety on-site when working with electrical equipment. Lockout kits provide a way to physically isolate an energy source, and therefore precent the accidental or unauthorised energisation of equipment that can lead to electrocution, fires, or other hazards. It’s an essential safety tool that must be kept on site and used properly to ensure the safety of workers.

Here are some tips on how to manage electrical lockout kits on-site. Make sure you have the use of lockout kits written into the SWMS document covering the safe management of the site, and then continue to monitor for compliance:

Keep an inventory of lockout kits

Keeping an inventory of lockout kits is essential for ensuring that all the required kits are available when needed. An inventory list should be created and maintained to keep track of the types and number of lockout kits available on-site. The list should include the type of kit, the number of kits available, and the location of each kit. The list should be updated regularly to reflect any changes in the inventory.

Store lockout kits in a designated location on site

The lockout kits should be stored in a location that is easily accessible to workers and visible to all. The storage location should be clearly marked with signage indicating that lockout kits are stored in the area. The location should be secured to prevent unauthorised access, and the kits should be protected from the elements to prevent damage.

Train workers on how to use lockout kits

All workers on-site should be trained on how to effectively use lockout kits. The training should cover the types of lockout devices available, how to identify the type of device required for a particular job, and how to use the device to lock out equipment. The training should also cover the process for removing the lockout device and how to restore power to the equipment safely.

Conduct regular inspections

Regular inspections of lockout kits should be conducted to ensure that the devices are in good condition and functioning properly. The inspections should be performed by a qualified person who is trained on how to inspect the kits. The inspection should include checking for any damage or wear and tear on the lockout equipment, verifying that the device fits properly, and checking that the device can be removed easily.

Update lockout procedures and policies

Lockout procedures and policies should be reviewed regularly and updated as necessary. Any changes to the inventory, storage location, or training program should be communicated to all workers on-site. The updated policies and procedures should be reviewed with all workers to ensure that everyone is aware of the changes.

It is also important to ensure that all lockout kits are compliant with the relevant regulations and standards. This includes ensuring that the devices meet the required standards for lockout tagout procedures and that they are compatible with the equipment they are intended to be used with. If you have any questions about electrical lockout kits, Australian regulations, and how to effectively use them on site, be sure to contact the team at NECA. We have supported many organisations to build effective and compliant strategies around the use of lockout kits on site, and would be more than happy to discuss your needs with you too.