Even after lockout, certain pieces of equipment may be subject to movement caused by gravity. During normal machine operation these features may have been put in motion by motors or cylinders, and while lockout disables the motion inducing device, gravity could still cause unexpected downward movement. Such unexpected motion could result in lacerations, pinching, crushing, or amputation.
To ensure safe conditions for maintenance, this equipment subject to gravity must be properly restrained and/or positioned in manner that gravity cannot cause motion. Various supports, blocks, pins or bottoming out the equipment are some methods to accomplish this.
Proper lockout/tagout can virtually eliminate the risk involved with hazardous energy.
Title: Stored Gravitational Energy
URL: http://www.deenergize.com/?target=Stored_Gravitational_Energy
Printed: Friday April 26th, 2024
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