What are the exceptions of Oregon OSHA's standard for the Control of Hazardous Energy (Lockout and Tagout)?
The most common example of equipment that can be exempt from the standard is cord and plug connected electric equipment for which exposure to the hazards of unexpected energization or start up is controlled by unplugging the equipment from the energy source—and when the plug is under the exclusive control of the employee performing the servicing or maintenance. The exclusion applies to portable electric tools as well as to cord and plug connected equipment intended for use at stationary or fixed locations. However, if the plug is not disconnected from an energy source, or the plug is not under the exclusive control of the employee during servicing and maintenance, the requirements for the exemption are not met, and all the applicable requirements of the standard apply.
Other exemption examples are tool changes and adjustments, and other minor servicing activities that take place during normal production operations. These examples are not covered by the standard if they are routine, repetitive, and integral to the use of the equipment for production—provided that the minor servicing is performed using alternative measures with effective protection.
A less common example of an exemption is hot tap operations on pressurized pipelines that distribute substances such as gas, steam, water, or petroleum products. The employer must show that continuity of service is essential, shutdown of the system is impractical, documented procedures are followed, and special equipment is used that provides proven, effective employee protection.