Vessels must enforce “lockout—tagout” compliance system

Failure to properly follow “lock out-tag out procedures” on a vessel is an example of negligence and is grounds for a Jones Act case.

According to worker safety site lok-alert.com, “Lock out failure is documented to attribute to almost 30 percent of all accidental injury and death claims in industry today.”

Lock-out—tag-out is a safety procedure to ensure that dangerous machinery is shut off or power sources are “isolated and rendered inoperative” (Wikipedia) before repair work begins.  This system is designed to protect both personnel and prevent equipment damage.

A lock will be placed in a position where the machine switch can’t be turned on or the key area is de-energized. A tag is placed on the locked out device to show that it must not be turned on.

All vessels must have a tag-out program and crews are required to follow it for maintenance of systems, components and equipment.

(TNT Enterprises)