Warning card used within a lockout/tagout system to indicate that the power source is disconnected, thus implementing a safe isolation system.

It is a standard warning tag used as an essential part of occupational safety procedures within the Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) system. It is used to indicate that the power source has been disconnected from the equipment or machine to apply the safe isolation system, and strongly warns against attempting to operate the device during maintenance or repair periods.

Technical Specifications

• Color Design: Diagonally striped in red and white to ensure maximum attention and indicate danger.
• Header: Features the word "DANGER" in red within a prominent frame, followed by the phrase "DO NOT OPERATE" below it.
• Top Hole: Equipped with a circular eyelet (often metal or reinforced) to pass the safety padlock or zip tie through, ensuring the tag does not tear easily.
• Data Entry Fields: Contains designated writing spaces to assign responsibility:
  • Name: To record the name of the technician or engineer responsible for the isolation.
  • Dept: To specify the technician's department.
  • Expected Completion: To indicate when the maintenance work is expected to be finished.
• Responsibility Text: Includes the explicit phrase: "This lock/tag may only be removed by" to confirm that the person who applied the tag is the only one authorized to remove it.

Features

• Application of Global Safety Standards: Ensures workplace compliance with industrial safety regulations (OSHA) to protect lives.
• Clarity of Responsibility: Prevents operational overlap and specifies exactly "who" is performing the maintenance and when it will end.
• Physical and Visual Deterrence: Serves as a strong visual deterrent preventing other workers from accidentally restoring power, protecting technicians from fatal injuries caused by sudden start-ups.

How to Use

1. Isolation: Completely disconnect the power source from the machine or equipment (whether electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, etc.).
2. Lock: Place your safety padlock (Lockout) on the isolation switch or breaker.
3. Tag: Pass the padlock shackle or a zip tie through the top hole of the tag and secure it with the lock in a prominent and visible location on the power source.
4. Record: Use a pen to fill in your details (Name, Dept, Expected Completion) on the tag.
5. Maintenance: Begin the maintenance work safely.
6. Removal: After completing the work and ensuring the equipment is safe and ready, the same person who applied the tag and lock removes them to restart the equipment.