A4_Seattle_District_HECP.pdf

OPERATIONS DIVISION

SAFE CLEARANCE PROGRAM FOR THE

CONTROL OF HAZARDOUS ENERGY

07 February 2020

CENWS-OD HECP 07 FEB 2020

i

SEATTLE DISTRICT

SAFE CLEARANCE PROGRAM FOR THE CONTROL OF HAZARDOUS ENERGY

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Chapter 1 - Hazardous Energy Control Policy

1.1 Purpose

1.2 Applicability

1.3 References

Chapter 2 - Emergencies

2.1 Suspension of Requirements

2.2 Safety of Personnel

2.3 Emergency Switching

2.4 Documentation

Chapter 3 - Responsibilities

3.1 Responsible Official (RO)

3.2 Issuing Individual (II)

3.3 Principal Authorized Individual (PAI)

3.4 Authorized Individuals (AI)

3.5 Affected Person (AP)

3.6 All Employees

3.7 Incidental Persons

Chapter 4 - Training

4.1 General

4.2 Documentation

4.3 Awareness Training

4.4 Affected Personnel Training

4.5 Authorized Individual Training

4.6 Issuing Individual Training

4.7 Responsible Official Training

4.8 Refresher Training

4.9 Examination Failure

4.10 Equipment Changes and Retraining

Chapter 5 - Locks and Tags

5.1 Locks

ii

5.2 Tags

Chapter 6 - HEC Procedures

6.1 Applying Locks and Tags

6.2 Lockout/Tagout Procedures Requiring a Safe Clearance

6.3 Temporary Protective Grounds (TPGs)

6.4 Reconfiguring Safe Clearance Locks and Tags on an existing Safe Clearance. . 22

6.5 Personal Lockout

6.6 Group Safe Clearances

6.7 Safe Clearances at Unattended or Remote Stations

Chapter 7 - Caution Orders

7.1 Purpose

7.2 General

7.3 Identification

7.4 Issued and Released

7.5 Documentation

7.6 Caution Order

7.7 Tags

Chapter 8 - Outside Contractors and Personnel

8.1 Personnel Protection

8.2 Submittals

8.3 Coordination

Chapter 9 - Record Keeping

9.1 Record Retention

9.2 Documentation

Chapter 10 - Inspections and Program Review

10.1 Purpose

10.2 Responsibility

10.3 Frequency

10.4 Periodic Inspection

10.5 Documentation

10.6 NWS HEC Committee

APPENDIX A - Definitions ............................................................................................ A-1

APPENDIX B - Local Supplement Requirements ......................................................... B-1

APPENDIX C – Forms and Tags ................................................................................ C-1 iii

APPENDIX D – Personnel Authorizations (Example).................................................. D-1

APPENDIX E – HECP Annual Review Inspection Checklist ........................................ E-1

APPENDIX F – Applicable Equipment for Personal Lockout/Switching Permits – Example ....................................................................................................................... F-1

Chapter 1 - Hazardous Energy Control Policy

1.1 Purpose. This document establishes procedures and operating criteria that shall be complied with for safe and reliable control of hazardous energy at Seattle District, U.S.

Corps of Engineers (Seattle District) operated facilities. It prescribes procedures for the safety of personnel and equipment protection when working on or near any system that produces, uses, or stores hazardous energy. It establishes minimum performance requirements and standards for the control of hazardous energy at Seattle District operated facilities.

This document is written in accordance with Engineering Regulation ER 385-1-1 and ER 385-1-31 and provides the district specific supplement, as required in the ER. As a supplemental, this document includes language of ER 385-1-31 for clarity and readability (italicized where major portions are extracted). In accordance with ER 385-1-1, Seattle District is responsible for safeguarding personnel whose operating, maintenance, construction, testing or research duties require them to work on or near equipment in which unexpected energizing, startup, or release of any form of hazardous energy could cause personal injury or property damage. In addition, Seattle District is responsible for safeguarding property and prevent damage to equipment. Definitions of terms are provided in Appendix A for ease of reference.

1.2 Applicability. This procedure applies to all personnel assigned to the Seattle District and those individuals conducting business at any of the Fixed Plant Operating Projects or Floating Plant. It is intended to be standardized across all Seattle District Fixed Plant Operating Projects. However, operating projects and work units within Operations Division are allowed to develop supplemental policies that are intended to provide clarity or specific instructions on how to accomplish the control of hazardous energy where unique instructions are necessary per Appendix B or uniquely identified within the body of this main document. All supplemental policies shall not be less stringent than this district policy.

Example Forms, Locks, and Tags are provided as template references in Appendix C.

Ultimately, these forms are intended to be standardized across the Seattle District after vetting with HEC Technical committee and approved by senior leadership within the Seattle District Operations Division.

1.3 References.

a. 29 CFR 1910.147, Control of Hazardous Energy (Lockout/Tag out)

b. 29 CFR 1910.269, Hazardous Energy Control (Lockout/Tag out) Procedures

c. 29 CFR 1910.333, Selection and Use of Safe Work Practices

d. OSHA Directive #CPL: 02-00-147, The Control of Hazardous Energy - Enforcement Policy and Inspection

e. ANSI C2, National Electrical Safety Code

f. ANSI/ASSE A10.44, Control of Energy Sources (Lockout/Tagout) for Construction and Demolitions Operations

g. EM 385-1-1, Engineer Manual, Department of the Army Safety and Health Requirements

h. AR 690-700, Personnel Relations and Services (General) Chapter 751

i. ER 385-1-31, Engineering Regulation, Safety and Occupational Health, The Control of Hazardous Energy

Chapter 2 - Emergencies

2.1 Suspension of Requirements. In an emergency (i.e., eminent threat to life or limb), the Responsible Official or their designated representative, may modify or suspend any of the requirements in this document temporarily as may be deemed necessary to permit proper handling of the specific emergency.

2.2 Safety of Personnel. In handling such emergencies, safety of personnel and members of the public shall be given predominant consideration.

2.3 Emergency Switching. If emergency switching or isolation is required and an Authorized Individuals (AI) are not available, other personnel may perform switching/clearing if deemed qualified by the Responsible Official.

2.4 Documentation. If emergency actions are taken, an after-action report (AAR) documenting the actions and the reasons for taking the emergency actions shall be completed by the Responsible Official, or their designee. The RO will review the AAR and be responsible for tracking any follow-up actions identified. The after-action report shall be kept with the affected clearances until the associated clearance records are disposed.

Chapter 3 - Responsibilities

3.1 Responsible Official (RO). The Responsible Official at each project or facility has overall responsibility for their Project's Program (and associated HEC procedures) and shall ensure that the requirements of this regulation are properly applied and adhered to.

For Seattle District, the Responsible Official for each Fixed Plant Operating Project is the associated Operating Project Manager (OPM). For the Floating Plant, it is the Chief of Waterways Maintenance unit. The RO:

a. Designates in writing, the Issuing Individuals (II), Principle Authorized Individuals (PAI) and Authorized Individuals (AI). Also designates RO duties in their absence. An example Personnel Authorization Memorandum is attached in Appendix D.

b. Is responsible for all administrative aspects of the HEC program, including:

(1) Training and Testing;

(2) Annual review and record keeping;

(3) Monitoring program compliance;

(4) Ensuring compliance with this program by all personnel engaged with activities on the RO’s facility and equipment;

(5) Preparing a list of equipment authorized for lockout/tagout without a safe clearance (see Appendix E for example);

(6) Developing, publishing, and maintaining the local HECP supplement: and

(7) Investigating alleged violations and take corrective action as necessary.

c. Can temporarily relieve an individual of their HECP responsibilities due to a request by an individual or personnel associated with the administration of this policy.

3.2 Issuing Individual (II). The Issuing Individual is designated by the RO to maintain the control of hazardous energy sources and operating equipment and systems. Upon issuance of a safe Clearance, the II temporarily relinquishes control of equipment to the Principal Authorized Individual (PAI) for the accomplishment of servicing and maintenance work. The Issuing Individual shall:

a. Verify that the requester is authorized to be issued a safe clearance;

b. Verify that an approved Activity Hazard Analysis (AHA) has been submitted;

c. Review Clearance Request Forms and personal lockouts, and consult with the person who requested the safe clearance to ensure that adequate protection is provided to personnel and equipment for the work to be performed;

d. Ensure the preparation of the Safe Clearance Order Sheet and provide AI or PAI with proposed copy of Safe Clearance Form;

e. Make all necessary arrangements for interruption of service;

f. Coordinate with agencies and other entities to ensure isolation of systems that are to be cleared;

g. Ensure the application and removal of lockout devices and tags according to isolation and switching procedures;

h. Record all safe clearance operations as required;

i. Maintain awareness of equipment condition and status during the safe clearance;

j. Ensure the equipment is ready for service after work has been completed;

k. Ensure that all Authorized Individuals have released their safe clearances and removed their locks;

l. Provide oversight to ensure that all parties follow the provisions of the HECP;

m. Ensure Temporary Protection Grounds (TPG) are installed and hang TPG tags;

n. Maintain all documentation associated with safe clearances; and

o. Delegate duties to a designated alternate as appropriate, except for issuing and releasing safe clearances; authorizing changes of status; and making Station Log Book entries.

3.3 Principal Authorized Individual (PAI). The PAI is the Authorized Individual (AI) who requests, holds, and manages the safe clearance. The PAI shall:

a. Request safe clearances on Clearance Request Form and submit an approved AHA for the work;

b. Review the safe clearance request with the II to ensure it provides adequate protection for the work to be done;

c. Verify the correct positioning of all energy isolation points and the correct placement of lockout/tagout devices;

d. Verify installation of all required physical barriers and TPGs;

e. Be responsible for the application and removal of safe clearance locks;

f. Verify hazardous energy is relieved, bled off, or otherwise released in a safe manner;

g. Assume responsibility for the system under safe clearance until:

(1) All work is complete;

(2) All personnel, tools, and equipment are in the clear;

(3) All grounds, barriers, and jumpers are removed;

(4) The safe clearance is transferred to another PAI or released to the II.

h. Keep the II informed of the status of the work;

i. Coordinate with other PAIs and Affected Personnel as required; including overseeing that the safe clearance work performed by APs under their clearance is accomplished according to HECP Guidelines;

j. Obtain permission from the II before making any change to the status of the safe clearance;

k. Ensure that all Affected Personnel sign on and off the Master Tag Form per local procedures, legibly and in ink;

l. Ensure the work is completed and equipment is ready for service before releasing the safe clearance; and

m. Report to the II any circumstances not meeting the requirements of the HECP.

3.4 Authorized Individuals (AI). Authorized Individuals are personnel designated by the RO as qualified to request, receive, and implement hazardous energy control procedures identified in the HEC Program. They can act as an II designee, PAI or AP when assigned by the RO.

3.5 Affected Person (AP). Affected persons are personnel designated by the RO as qualified to perform servicing and maintenance in accordance with this regulation and local HEC Program requirements. All APs shall:

a. Verify that a safe clearance provides adequate protection for the work to be performed and that they have full understanding of the work to be performed prior to signing on the Master Tag Form;

b. Report to the II any circumstances not meeting the requirements of the HECP;

c. Obtain permission from the PAI prior to entering the clearance boundary or performing work under a safe clearance;

d. Sign on and off, in ink, the Master Tag Form;

e. Hang and remove their personal locks as required.

3.6 All Employees. All employees shall report procedural errors and/or violations to their supervisor or the appropriate official. All personnel should demonstrate a spirit of cooperation and shared responsibility for the implementation of the HECP. Any potentially unsafe conditions shall be reported to the II.

3.7 Incidental Persons. Incidental Persons include visitors and vendors along with others who are allowed to enter, perform inspections, and view the area affected by the safe clearance. All visitors and vendors must be given documented training to include instruction regarding HECP procedures and the prohibition of removing a lockout or tagout.

a. All vendors and visitors shall be escorted at all times by the PAI, AI, or AP.

b. The Escort must gain permission from and coordinate activities with the PAI (clearance holder) before escorting visitors and vendors.

c. Escorts are responsible for signing on/off the Master Tag Form and denoting the number of people escorted.

d. Escorts shall hang or remove their personal locks as required once all visitors have been accounted for.

Chapter 4 - Training

4.1 General. HEC Program training shall be provided and documented at each operating project. Progressive training on the HECP shall be provided to personnel.

Awareness, AP, AI, II and RO training and/or testing is provided to individuals commensurate with their responsibilities.

Operating Projects should hold an interactive annual HEC training session in order to cover general HEC topics and Project specific supplemental guidance and is not an alternative to receiving specific training outlined in the following sections.

4.2 Documentation. All training documentation shall be maintained at the operating project for at least two years. Documentation is required for both initial and refresher training and shall contain, as a minimum: employees’ names, dates of training, instructor’s name or institution, outline of training content and results (pass/fail) of written assessment.

4.3 Awareness Training. Awareness training for new employees, visitors, vendors, and other personnel who may be in an area where energy control procedures are being used. In general, Awareness training should take less than 1 hour to complete and there is no written examination associated with this training. This training shall be provided annually to all employees. Awareness training must include:

a. Instruction regarding the purpose of the HECP and a general understanding of this policy and site practices regarding the program;

b. The prohibition of removing a lockout or tagout device;

c. Instruction that safe clearance tag requires respect equal to that of a lock;

d. Recognition of HEC locks and tags;

e. Prohibition from operating equipment.

4.4 Affected Personnel Training. Initial training includes site specific hazards and specific training on this policy as it applies to the AP to include a written exam. In general, employees should be provided up to 10 hours to complete training. Re-occurring annual training and testing should generally take less than 2 hours. Training for APs and their qualification standards shall include:

a. Completion of Awareness Training (for initial or new employee training only);

b. Supervisory recommendation that the employee understands the policy and site specific hazards and the means to control those hazards;

c. Review of a clearance to include a field “walk down” with an AI/II within their work unit.

d. Completion of AP training module which includes the following subjects:

(1) The limitation of safe clearance tags when used without locks;

(2) The type and magnitude of energy present in the workplace;

(3) Safe clearance procedures and associated forms;

(4) The use of personal locks; and

(5) Definitions and terms to include site specific supplements to this policy.

e. Successfully pass the written test associated with the AP training module.

4.5 Authorized Individual Training. Initial training includes site specific hazards and specific training on this policy as it applies to the AI to include a written and practical exam. In general, employees should be provided up to 15 hours to complete the training.

Re-occurring (annual) training and testing should generally take less than 4 hours. AI training shall include:

a. Completion of General Awareness and AP training (for initial training only);

b. Supervisory recommendation that the employee understands the policy and has a thorough knowledge of facility system operation and isolation (site-specific knowledge of Operating Project);

c. Review of a clearance to include a field “walk down” or a practical examination with an II or subject matter expert within their work unit (for initial training only).

d. Completion of AI training module which includes the following subjects:

(1) Recognition of relevant hazardous energy sources;

(2) Methods and means for energy isolation and control;

(3) Requirements for personal lockouts;

(4) Circumstances that require clearances;

(5) All clearance, administrative procedures, to include the following:

(a) Local supplemental policies;

(b) Administrative procedures;

(c) Request;

(d) Issue;

(e) Status Change;

(f) Release;

(g) Transfer; and

(h) Temporary Protective Grounds.

e. Successfully pass the written test associated with the AI training module.

4.6 Issuing Individual Training. II training shall include:

a. Authorized Individual training and successful passing of the examination;

b. Supervisory recommendation that the employee understands the policy and has extensive and thorough knowledge of facility system operation and isolation, administrative procedures and log book entry requirements (site-specific knowledge of the Operating Project).

4.7 Responsible Official Training. RO training shall include Authorized Individual training module and successful passing of the examination.

4.8 Refresher Training. Refresher training for all personnel involved with the HEC Program, typically AP’s, AI’s, and II’s, RO’s shall be provided:

a. At least every 12 months and followed by a written assessment;

b. When an employee is observed deviating or periodic inspection reveals deviations from proper use of HEC procedures; or

c. When there is a change in job assignment which warrants a change in HEC authorization, a change in hazards, or a change in the HEC Program. Employees will be provided site specific training associated with new job assignment.

d. All employees shall complete refresher training within 60 days of the annual requirement to maintain their qualification for the HECP Personnel Authorizations.

4.9 Examination Failure. It is in the interest of the Agency to adequately train individuals to perform their duties of this policy. If an employee fails an examination, the individual will be given additional help to strengthen knowledge in those HECP areas that are needed.

a. Affected Personnel (AP). Will be given re-training up to 8 hours in the following areas:

(1) Additional on the job training with a subject matter expert;

(2) Review of the District and local supplemental Hazardous Energy Control Policy with a subject matter expert;

(3) Take the Affected Personnel module and pass the module test.

b. AI Exam Failure for First Time. Will be given re-training up to 10 hours in the following areas:

(1) The employee’s supervisor will assign an experienced II/AI to review the Hazardous Energy Control policy and local supplements with the individual;

(2) Take the Authorized Individual module and pass the module test.

c. AI Exam Failure for Second Time. The individual will be allowed up to 15 hours to receive training in the following areas:

(1) The employee’s supervisor will assign an experienced II/AI to mentor the individual in the Hazardous Energy Control policy and local supplements;

(2) Will be assigned additional on the job training on site specific activities such as background information regarding unit configuration and clearance points along with station service and auxiliary equipment.

(3) Take the Authorized Individual module and pass the module test.

4.10 Equipment Changes and Retraining. When applicable or significant, equipment and/or system training shall be provided in hazards requiring new or different HECP isolation.

Chapter 5 - Locks and Tags

5.1 Locks.

a. Locks shall be capable of withstanding the environment and conditions to which exposed and shall also be substantial enough to prevent removal without the use of excessive force or unusual techniques (such as with the use of bolt cutters).

b. Clearance locks (sets):

(1) Shall be standardized within every facility and recognizable as a HEC lock by utilizing a unique colored lock.

(2) Shall have a colored, solid body design. Colors may not include natural metal (silver, gray, or brass).

(3) Have shackles that should be ¼ inch in diameter or less and be at least 1 ½ inches long.

(4) Must be individually identified by numbering and/or lettering.

(5) Shall have one key issued. Remaining spares will be controlled by the RO through procedural measures. Control of the keys may be delegated the next level of management.

(6) If a key is missing from a set of locks, remove lock set from service until the missing key is accounted for.

(7) When a key is broken or dropped and irretrievable, duplicate the spare key to replace broken/lost key, then return the spare to the Responsible Official for key control purposes.

c. Lockout devices:

(1) Should be attached in a manner that holds the hazardous energy isolation device in the safe position specified by the procedure and prevents inadvertent operation;

(2) Lockout hasps should be utilized where multiple lockouts are likely to occur;

(3) Lockout hasps may need to be nonconductive in certain applications.

d. Personal Locks:

(1) Shall have a label that includes the name of the person responsible for the lock and a means of identifying his/her work unit department;

(2) Shackles should be ¼ inch diameter or less and be at least 1 ½ inches long;

(3) Should be keyed the same for each individuals lock. Lock sets issued to individuals shall be keyed uniquely;

(4) Shall not be shared or loaned between individuals;

(5) Shall have one key issued which shall remain under the control of the person whom the locks are issued. All remaining spares will be destroyed.

(6) If a key is missing from a set of locks, remove lock set from service until the missing key is accounted for.

5.2 Tags. Tags shall:

a. Be standardized within every facility and have content equivalent to the examples in Appendix C for the ENG Form 1925, “Danger Tag” , ENG Form 1924, “Caution Order Tag”, Temporary Protective Ground (TPG) Tag, and Personal Lockout Danger Tag;

b. Be constructed and printed so that exposure to weather conditions, wet or damp locations, or corrosive environments will not cause the tag to deteriorate or the message to become illegible;

c. Be attached by means which are: non-reusable; substantial enough to prevent inadvertent or accidental removal; attachable by hand; self-locking; non-releasable, with a minimum unlocking strength of no less than 50 pounds; and having the basic characteristics of being at least equivalent to a one-piece, all-environment-tolerant nylon cable tie, and;

d. If used on a personal lock, shall identify the person who placed the lock.

Chapter 6 - HEC Procedures

6.1 Applying Locks and Tags.

a. Tags shall be affixed to each energy isolation device:

(1) By the II or designee in work areas under a facility operator's control;

(2) By AIs who will be performing the work the work in work areas in areas not under a facility operator’s control, such as unmanned or remote sites; and

(3) At the same point where the lock would be attached (whenever possible).

b. Locks shall be affixed to each energy isolation device by PAI (for Group Safe Clearance) or AI (for Personal Lockouts or Safe Clearance). When applied, locks will secure the energy isolation device in the safe position.

c. Remotely controlled equipment will be completely isolated so that it cannot actuate any equipment which causes a release of energy that may impact the safety of personnel working in or around the equipment.

d. Software will not be used as a tagout point.

e. Tags alone are authorized under very limited circumstances only when equipment is incapable of accepting lockout equipment and when the following conditions are met:

(1) Personnel shall be instructed in the limitations of tags;

(2) Additional means shall be employed to provide a level of protection equivalent to that provided by a lock (e.g., placement of the tag in a manner which prohibits operation of the energy isolation device, removal of an isolating circuit mechanism, opening of an extra disconnecting device, removal of a valve handle to reduce the likelihood of inadvertent energization, etc.); and

(3) Tags shall be treated as locks and shall be removed by the Il or designee, or the AI that attached the tag. Tags shall never be bypassed, ignored, or otherwise defeated.

f. Positive Controls in Public Access Areas. In areas with public access, locks or other positive controls shall be used on the energy isolation devices. Tagout alone is not permitted in public access areas.

6.2 Lockout/Tagout Procedures Requiring a Safe Clearance.

a. Requesting a Safe Clearance.

(1) The PAI requests a Safe Clearances from the II using the Clearance Request Form. Requests for Safe Clearance shall be definite, specific and provide adequate information for the II to complete the Clearance Request Form. The following information should be provided:

(a) The equipment or system to be cleared;

(b) The purpose/scope of work for the safe clearance;

(c) The energy isolation point(s) to be cleared to perform the work safely;

(d) The physical barriers, blind flange/piping blanks, or bulkheads that shall be used, including locations;

(e) The date and time the safe clearance is required;

(f) The estimated length of time the system or equipment shall be out of service and the time required for returning the system or equipment to service in an emergency.

(2) An approved Activity Hazard Analysis (AHA) Form shall be submitted to the II by the PAI with the clearance request prior to the clearance being issued and shall identify all hazards and appropriate actions that will mitigate those hazards (such as level of PPE for Arch Flash etc.).

(3) The request should be submitted within enough time for the appropriate review, questions and coordination to be completed before the work is to commence, as defined in the local supplement.

b. Issuing a clearance. The II receiving the safe clearance request shall:

(1) Verify that the PAI is qualified for requesting the Safe Clearance;

(2) Discuss details of the safe clearance with the PAI to ensure that the proposed isolation points are sufficient to control the type, magnitude, and hazards of the energy in order to protect personnel and equipment;

(3) Prepare Safe Clearance Order Sheet and Safe Clearance Form and other documentation, including tags.

c. Clearing the equipment. The II or designee shall:

(1) Obtain the tags from the II, when the designee is performing the clearing function;

(2) Ensure the equipment is shut down in accordance with established operational procedures and sequence in the Tag Installation and Removal Sequence Sheet;

(3) Position all equipment controls, valves, switches, disconnects, breakers, etc.

in the order listed on the Tag Installation and Removal Sequence Sheet;

(4) Place an ENG 1925, “Danger, Do Not Operate” tag on each lockout point and annotate the time and the point was isolated and initial each tag;

(5) Notify the II that the equipment has been isolated and tagged when clearing function is performed by the designee.

d. Locking the equipment.

(1) The PAI shall check each detail for accuracy and shall assure that energy isolating devices are properly positioned and tagged. The PAI will then affix locks on each lockable energy isolation device and place their initials on each tag. For group safe clearances, once the PAI has accomplished affixing the locks of the energy isolation devices, they will place the isolation lock key into a group lockbox and secure the lockbox with their personal lock.

(2) Once tagged and locked, the II issues a copy of the Safe Clearance Form and the Master Tag Form to the PAI. When issuing a safe clearance, the following data will be entered in the Station Log Book in red:

(a) Safe clearance number;

(b) Purpose of the safe clearance and system to be cleared;

(c) Date and time (in military time) of issue;

(d) Names of II, and the PAI receiving the safe clearance.

(3) Provide additional safeguards if necessary (i.e., place temporary protective grounds (TPGs), mechanical blocks, etc.).

(4) Safe Clearance will be issued in person whenever possible.

(5) Only in emergencies and at the RO’s discretion may the same person fill the role of both the II and the PAI.

e. Temporary removal of locks and tags (temporary lifts).

(1) In situations where locks and tags must be temporarily removed from the energy isolating device and the system re-energized for testing or repositioning purposes, the action must be fully coordinated in advance with the II. Employees’ exposure to hazards is high during the transition periods of the temporary lift (changing from a de-energized condition to an energized condition until the system is placed back under safe clearance control). This exposure requires that a detailed sequence of steps is followed in order to ensure all tasks are safely accomplished.

(2) All changes to the status of safe clearances shall be coordinated between all APs, affected PAIs and the II.

(3) To accomplish a temporary lift safely, the following steps shall be taken in order:

(a) The PAI ensures that all APs have signed off the Master Tag Form and have removed their personal locks from the safe clearance Group Lock Box;

(b) The PAI ensures that all tools and equipment are in the clear and affected equipment has been properly reassembled;

(c) The PAI informs the II of the status of the equipment and request the removal of the appropriate clearance locks and ENG 1925, “Danger, Do Not Operate Tags”;

(d) The II verifies the request is properly documented prior to authorizing the temporary lift;

(e) The PAI verifies the status change by initialing the Change of Status Form;

(f) The PAI remove their personal lock from the Group Lock Box. Use the Safe Clearance Locks key to remove the Safe Clearance Locks from the energy isolation points to be temporarily repositioned;

(g) Return the Safe Clearance Locks key to the Group Lock Box and then secure the box with their Personal Lock;

(h) The II or designee shall ensure the removal of the appropriate Safe Clearance Tags and repositioning of the energy isolation devices;

(i) The II shall record the Temporary Lift in the Station Log Book.

(4) After the Temporary Lift has been performed, APs shall sign on the Master Tag Form, with permission from the PAI, and shall place their Personal Locks on the Group Lock Box for work to be done under the temporary lift condition.

(5) When the temporary operation is complete, the PAI may request to re-hang the temporarily lifted tags and locks, reconfigure the safe clearance, or release the safe clearance.

f. Releasing a Safe Clearance.

(1) The release of safe clearances will be coordinated between all PAIs having safe clearances on the same equipment or systems and the II, in order to accomplish the most efficient return of the equipment or system to service.

(2) Safe Clearances shall be released using the following steps:

(a) The PAI shall verify all tools and equipment have been cleared from the area, all TPGs have been removed and the system components are operationally intact and ready to return the equipment to service;

(b) The PAI shall ensure that all APs have signed off on the Master Tag Form;

(c) The PAI shall return the Master Tag Form and attached sheets to the II and report on the status of the equipment;

(d) The PAI shall request the release of the Safe Clearance and the II shall ensure that all AP’s have signed off the Master Tag Form;

(e) The PAI shall remove their personal lock from the Group Clearance Lock Box and will remove the keys and proceed to unlock all Safe Clearance Locks from the energy isolation devices.

(f) The PAI will sign off of the Safe Clearance Order Sheet. The II will document the release of the Safe Clearance in the Station Log Book in green ink with the following information:

(i) Safe Clearance number;

(ii) Date and time (in military time) of release;

(iii) Names of individuals issuing and receiving the release authorization;

(iv) Date and time equipment returned to service.

(g) The II will verify the proper sequence for re-positioning the equipment in order to safely return the equipment to an operational state:

(h) The II or their designee will remove ENG 1925, “Danger, Do Not Operate” Tags and ensure isolation devices are removed and that the hazardous energy isolation points are restored to their correct positions;

(i) The II or designee will sign the Tag Installation and Removal Sequence Sheet in the appropriate section to identify when the ENG 1925, “Danger, Do Not Operate” Tags have been removed;

(j) The II will file all Safe Clearance documentation within operating projects filing system, generally kept in the Control Room;

(k) The II will inventory the safe clearance lock sets to ensure that the key is with the set;

(l) The II or their designee will thoroughly inspect equipment, and if appropriate, test equipment to verify proper operation;

(m) The II will make any required notifications of equipment availability.

g. Transferring a Safe Clearance.

(1) Transfers of clearances are permitted from PAI to PAI and should be annotated on the Safe Clearance Order Sheet.

(2) During the process of transferring the clearance, no one shall be signed on or working under the clearance to be transferred.

(3) The transfer of the clearance must be performed in the following sequence:

(a) The oncoming PAI must fully understand the limits of the Safe Clearance and any special hazards that exist in connection with the work to be performed under the Safe Clearance;

(b) The oncoming PAI shall review the Safe Clearance Order Sheet, TPG Log, Change of Status Form and shall assure that all energy isolation devices are properly positioned, locked and tagged;

(c) The oncoming PAI will initial each isolation point tag upon verification of the devices position and condition;

(d) The outgoing PAI will sign the Safe Clearance Order Sheet and remove their Personal Lock from the Safe Clearance Group Lock Box;

(e) The II will issue the Safe Clearance Order Sheet to the oncoming PAI;

(f) The oncoming PAI will sign the Safe Clearance Order Sheet accepting the Safe Clearance and will place their personal lock on the Group Lock Box.

(g) The II will record the transfer in the Station Log Book to include:

(i) Safe Clearance Number;

(ii) Date and military time of the clearance transfer;

(iii) Names of the individuals involved with the transfer (the oncoming and outgoing PAIs).

h. Abnormal Release or Transfer. When, due to extraordinary circumstances, it is not possible for the PAI or AI to release or transfer a Safe Clearance in person:

(1) The II must verify that the PAI or AI that applied the device is not at the facility, makes all reasonable efforts to contact the PAI/AI;

(2) After verification that the original PAI/AI is not at the facility nor is able to be contacted, the II will request that the Responsible Official remove or authorize removal of the PAI/AI’s personal lock from the lockbox with the Abnormal Release/Transfer/Removal Form;

(3) The II, after gaining authority to remove the PAI/AI’s lock can initiate the transfer to a different PAI or release the safe clearance in accordance with protocols described above;

(4) At the earliest possible time, the original PAI/AI shall be informed of the safe clearance and equipment status prior to resuming work at the facility.

6.3 Temporary Protective Grounds (TPGs).

a. TPGs, when required by the National Electrical Safety Code (NESC) or as specified in coordination with a Safe Clearance Request, (usually when working on equipment above 600 volts), are considered energy dissipation devices and are considered part of the HEC Procedures, but not part of the clearance.

b. Placement. TPGs are placed after the Safe Clearance is accepted and are not considered part of the clearance. Locks are not required on TPGs. The following procedure shall be followed:

(1) Circuit to be grounded shall be under a Safe Clearance, issued by the II and accepted by the PAI;

(2) PAI coordinates with the II to place TPGs;

(3) The II shall record the authorization of the TPG installation and will record this authorization in the Station Log Book;

(3) All TPGs shall be placed by, or under the DIRECT supervision of, Qualified Electrical Person;

(4) The Qualified Electrical Person who installs the TPGs shall sign on to the Safe Clearance Form and place his/her personal lock on the Group Lock Box;

(5) TPGs shall be installed in accordance with industry standards;

(6) TPG tags are placed by the II or their designee;

(7) The PAI shall annotate TPG placement on the TPG Log;

(8) The Qualified Electrical Person who installs the TPGs will then remove their personal lock on the Group Lock Box;

c. Removal of TPGs. TPGs are removed prior to the release of the associated Safe Clearance. The following steps shall be followed:

(1) PAI notifies all APs that TPGs will be removed/moved and all APs shall sign off of the Master Tag Form;

(2) PAI requests the release of the TPG tags and provides the II the safe clearance and TPG tag numbers;

(3) The II or their designee shall ensure that all released TPG tags are removed;

(4) The PAI shall coordinate with the Qualified Electrical Worker to remove TPGs;

(5) The Qualified Electrical Worker removing the TPGs shall sign on to the Master Tag Form and place his/her personal lock on the Group Lock Box;

(6) All TPGs shall be removed by or under the DIRECT supervision of an Electrically Qualified Person in accordance with industry standards;

(7) The Electrically Qualified Person shall report to the PAI when the TPGs are removed;

(8) The PAI will verify the release of the TPG tags by initialing the TPG Log and mark released and the II shall record the removal of the TPGs in the Station Log Book in ink;

(9) The Qualified Electrical Person who installs the TPGs will then remove their personal lock on the Group Lock Box.

6.4 Reconfiguring Safe Clearance Locks and Tags on an existing Safe Clearance.

a. Changes to the status of safe clearances shall be coordinated between all affected PAIs, APs and II.

b. The following steps are taken, in the order shown, to add locks and tags to a safe clearance:

(1) The PAI shall request the II to add additional energy isolation points and tags to his/her safe clearance;

(2) The II shall prepare the additional ENG Form 1925, “Danger, Do Not Operate” tags and add the additional energy isolation points to the Safe Clearance Order Sheet;

(3) The PAI shall verify that all APs have signed off of the Master Tag Form and notify the II;

(4) The II or their designee shall ensure that the energy isolation devices are correctly positioned, the lockout devices are installed, and the safe clearance tags are hung and initialed;

(5) The PAI shall acquire additional safe clearance locks as necessary;

(6) The PAI shall verify the position of the energy isolation devices by initialing the new safe clearance tags and affixing the additional safe clearance locks;

(7) The PAI shall place any safe clearance lock keys used into the safe clearance Group Lock Box;

(8) The II shall enter the additional clearance points in the Station Log Book in red ink.

c. The following steps are taken, in the order shown, to remove locks and tags from a safe clearance:

(1) The PAI shall ensure that all APs have signed off the Master Tag Form and have removed their personal locks from the safe clearance group lock box;

(2) The PAI shall inspect the equipment for proper reassembly, ensure that all tools and equipment have been cleared from the area, and verify that TPGs have been removed if applicable;

(3) The PAI shall request to the II the removal of the desired energy isolation points;

(4) The II shall ensure that all APs have signed off of the Master Tag Form and have removed their personal locks from the Group Lock Box;

(5) The II shall record the change of status in the Station Log Book;

(6) The PAI shall update and initial the Change of Status Form to reflect the released energy isolation points;

(7) The PAI shall remove his/her personal lock from the safe clearance Group Lock Box and retrieve each key for the safe clearance locks to be removed;

(8) The PAI shall remove the locks from the energy isolation points to be reconfigure;

(9) The PAI shall return the safe clearance lock keys to the safe clearance Group Lock Box, and then secure the box with his/her personal lock;

(10) The II or designee shall ensure that the safe clearance tags have been removed and that isolation devices are positioned as required;

(11) The II shall mark the energy isolation points “reconfigured,” and record the date in the Station Log Book;

(12) The II shall record the reconfigured energy isolation points in the Station Log Book.

6.5 Personal Lockout.

a. Personal lockout provides for the restricted authorization for designated personnel to take designated equipment out of service for limited maintenance without a Safe Clearance.

b. Appendix D provides an example to assist each project in developing their own Personnel Authorizations, which identifies the only authorized project personnel to whom personal lockouts shall be issued.

c. Annex E provides an example to assist each project in developing their own Applicable Equipment for Personal Lockout, which is a list of equipment that may be removed from service for maintenance purposes without a safe clearance or group lockout/tagout procedures. The RO is responsible for establishing the list. Personal lockouts will be allowed only on equipment indicated on this list. The provisions in this section must be followed.

d. Equipment designated for personal lockout use must meet the following requirements:

(1) It must be rated at 480 volts or lower;

(2) It must not have potential for stored or residual energy or accumulation of stored energy which could be dangerous after shutdown;

(3) It must not create hazards for other employees;

(4) It must require no more than four (4) isolation points;

(5) It must be maintained under a personal lockout during one maintenance work shift only;

(6) It must not require TPGs.

e. When a personal lockout is requested, the AI shall:

(1) Ensure that an AHA is prepared that identifies all hazards when more than one lockout point is used to isolate the work area;

(2) The request shall include a procedure or precautions specific to the equipment being removed from service;

f. The determination of whether a safe clearance or personal lockout is confirmed by the II. The II shall not issue a personal lockout if a safe clearance is requested. A personal lockout will not be used on isolation points already tagged out under a safe clearance and vice versa.

g. Protection shall be mutually agreed upon by the II and the AI.

h. The II shall annotate the lockout points and the individual requesting the personal lock in the station log book.

i. Isolation points, if lockable, must be locked using a personal safety lock. If not lockable, a tag must be attached in the same manner and following the same requirements for a “tag only” isolation point used in a safe clearance. Personal lockout tags will be treated with the same respect as a safe clearance tag (ENG Form 1925).

j. The lock and tag will only be placed and removed by the AI who was issued the personal lockout. The personal lock and tag shall only be used on the isolation point annotated in the log book. If the tag needs to be moved it must be released and reissued by the II.

k. One personal lock and personal tag per worker per isolation point is allowed with a maximum of four isolation points.

l. If the equipment cannot be returned to service before the end of the work shift, it shall be placed under a safe clearance. Since equipment cannot be under a personal lockout and a safe clearance at the same time, the transfer should occur simultaneously.

m. A record of each personal lockout issued and released shall be entered in the Station Log Book.

6.6 Group Safe Clearances. It is the standard practice in the Seattle District that all safe clearances are issued with the capability to be Group Safe Clearances. All clearances are issued with a Safe Clearance Order Sheet. The PAI is responsible for coordination and administration of the group safe clearance. The AI requesting the safe clearance becomes the PAI when the safe clearance is accepted. The PAI will be kept informed of work status by all AP’s. Each AP needing protection under a group safe clearance shall:

a. Obtain permission from the PAI to enter or work within the area that is covered by the safe clearance;

b. Review the scope of work, the AHA, the energy isolation points and the lockout/tagout devices installed. By signing the Master Tag Form the individual is acknowledging that they have reviewed all aspects of the job, activity hazards and clearance and are satisfied that the coverage boundaries are adequate for the work to be performed;

c. Place their personal lock on the Group Lock Box;

d. Keep the PAI updated on status of work;

e. Upon completion of work, during a scheduled absence or, at the request of the PAI, sign off of the Master Tag Form with the date, time and their initials;

f. Remove their personal lock from the Group Lock Box.

6.7 Safe Clearances at Unattended or Remote Stations. Unattended and Remote Stations in NWS include Lake Washington Ship Canal; Howard A. Hanson Dam, Mud Mountain Dam, Chief Joseph Habitat Management Units and Recreation Facilities, Albeni Falls Recreation Facilities, Murray Springs Fish Hatchery (Libby Dam) and other facilities not fed by powerhouse station service power.

a. The AI is responsible for the proper clearing, tagging, and locking of equipment in accordance with the provisions of this policy. AI’s shall be designated in writing by the RO as being permitted to perform these functions at unattended or remote stations.

b. Tags and Locks shall meet the same requirements and same application as outlined in this policy. Positive Controls in Public Access Areas, such as locks or other positive controls shall be used on energy isolation devices. Tags alone are not permitted in public access areas.

c. Group lockout or tagout. When servicing and/or maintenance is performed by a crew, craft, department or other group, the following procedure shall be used:

(1) The AI, in conjunction with the APs, shall fill out a Safe Clearance Order Sheet, and an AHA which include the following:

(a) An adequate analysis of the type, magnitude, and hazards of the energy to be controlled has been conducted and all hazardous energy sources have been identified;

(b) The procedures will safely control all hazardous energy sources; and

(c) The procedures will be applied and removed in proper sequence to isolate and restore the operational capability of the equipment.

(2) The AI may be required to coordinate the interruption of service and/or isolation of equipment with other agencies or other entities to ensure isolation of systems are cleared.

(3) The AI is responsible for ensuring:

(a) All energy-isolating points are positioned exactly as specified by the Safe Clearance Order Sheet and ensuring all energy isolation points are locked and tagged accordingly;

(b) The equipment being placed under safe clearance is safe for the work to be performed;

(c) That all locks and tags are applied appropriately;

(d) All APs working under the clearance have signed on and off of the Master Tag Form and have properly applied their locks on the group lock box;

(e) That equipment is ready for service after work has been completed and equipment is coordinated with affected agencies, customers, or other entities.

(4) All APs working under a safe clearance shall:

(a) Coordinate all activities with the AI and fully understand the activity to be performed, the lockout/tagout points, and the limits of the safe clearance;

(b) Sign on and off of the Master Tag Form in coordination with the AI;

(c) Place their personal lock and tag on the group lock box; and

(3) Upon completion of work, each AP under the group clearance will remove their lock from the group lock box and sign off the Master Tag Form. If AP is taking leave or has a known absence they shall remove their lock from the box and sign off the clearance prior to their absence.

g. AI Unavailable. If the AI that applied the LOTO device(s) is not available to remove them, that device may only be removed under the direction of the RO. The procedure shall include:

(1) Verification by the RO that the AI is not at the facility;

(2) Making all reasonable efforts to contact the AI to inform him/her that their LOTO device has been removed; and

(3) Ensuring that the AI has this knowledge before he/she resumes work at the facility;

(4) Documents the action, reason, and steps taken to contact the AI as recorded on Abnormal Transfer/Release/Removal Form.

h. Continuity of Lockout/Tagout Protection.