Sometimes, certain devices need to be kept in a safe, secure location. That is where a lockout station would come in handy. The average lockout station comes equipped to accommodate tagout devices like keys, inspection tags, padlocks, and more.
These stations need to be in an accessible place, but they must be secure and locked as well. The goal is to prevent improper usage, while also preventing against the potential accidental loss or damage of any of those things.
A Standardized Program
When it comes to lockout stations, a business should definitely have a standardized program in place. Doing so will help to ensure that you are compliant with regulations related to workplace injuries. For instance, having a lockout program is part of standard OSHA compliance.
The key is to ensure that employees within the business have been properly trained on how to use the station. The goal is to ensure that not only are these devices protected, but that employees remain safe while using the tagout program. On top of that, having a lockout station will ensure that there is minimal confusion when it comes to the location and usage of these devices in the future.
More Efficient Safety Procedures
Another major benefit of using lockout stations is that it can minimize and possibly prevent potential mistakes that can lead to both production and safety issues. Confusion can be a deadly thing, especially in the industrial sector. Reducing any chance of an issue can do wonders for employee safety.
Lockout stations do, however, need to be machine specific. With a wide range of machines comes a wide range of lockout stations. Each machine having its own means that employees become familiar with that specific station and how to use it in accordance with the machine. It also means that the lockout stations are in strategic positions or in close proximity to the machine that they are meant to be used with.
Easy to Keep Track of
One of the worst things about safety procedures and protocols is a lack of organization. Far too often, organizations implement strategies that are too difficult to execute because of confusion and disorganization. Thankfully, the implementation of lockout stations ensures that everything is properly organized.
More importantly, should a device become damaged or lost, it becomes far easier to keep track of. Getting a replacement or repairs done becomes more efficient, ensuring that there is less interruption to daily operations. That equates to less in potential losses, not to mention any potential compromises to worker safety.
Cost Efficient
Finally, lockout stations are very cost-efficient to implement. In most cases, you’re looking at about $100 but at worst, $300. Putting them across your shop won’t cost an arm and a leg, so there really is no excuse for not having them all over the place. Then again, it depends on the kind you get and the range of products that the station itself comes with.
It is far easier to improve organization and safety within your business than you realize. In the end, it will ensure that employees are not only safer but more efficient in the process as well. For the bottom line, that can mean only good things. Don’t skirt safety and safety-related guidelines any longer.
Make the move to implementing lockout stations sooner rather than later. Your business will be far better for it. Most importantly, you can protect both your business and the employees who make it go in one fell swoop. Don’t cut corners any longer when you can add a great solution at a low cost.