A5_Walla_Walla_District_HECP.pdf

US Army Corps of Engineers Walla Walla District

Safety and Occupational Health Office

Safe Clearance Program for the Control of Hazardous Energy

NWWOM 385-1-20

13 February 2020

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SAFE CLEARANCE PROGRAM

FOR THE CONTROL OF HAZARDOUS ENERGY

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Paragraph Page Chapter 1 – Introduction

1-1. Purpose .............................................................................................................1-1 1-2. Applicability .......................................................................................................1-2 1-3. References ........................................................................................................1-2 1-4. Definitions..........................................................................................................1-3 1-5. Authority ............................................................................................................1-3 1-6. Effective Date....................................................................................................1-3

Chapter 2 – Responsibilities

2-1. Responsible Official ..........................................................................................2-1 2-2. Issuing Individual ..............................................................................................2-2 2-3. Principal Authorized Individual (PAI) ...............................................................2-3 2-4. Authorized Individual ........................................................................................2-4 2-5. Affected Personnel ...........................................................................................2-4 2-6. All Employees ...................................................................................................2-5 2-7. Incidental Persons ............................................................................................2-5

Chapter 3 – Policies and Rules

3-1. General ..............................................................................................................3-1 3-2. Procedural Requirements.................................................................................3-1

Chapter 4 – Emergency Procedures

4-1. Suspension of Requirements ...........................................................................4-1 4-2. Safety of Personnel ..........................................................................................4-1 4-3. Emergency Switching .......................................................................................4-1

Chapter 5 – Training

5-1. General ..............................................................................................................5-1 5-2. New Employees ................................................................................................5-1 5-3. Awareness Training..........................................................................................5-1 5-4. Affected Personnel Training.............................................................................5-1 5-5. Authorized Individual Training..........................................................................5-2 5-6. Issuing Individual Training................................................................................5-2 5-7. Retraining ..........................................................................................................5-3 i

5-8. Equipment Changes and Retraining................................................................5-3 5-9. Training Documentation ...................................................................................5-3 5-10. Training of Contractors .....................................................................................5-3

Chapter 6 – Locks and Tags

6-1. Locks and Lockout Devices .............................................................................6-1 6-2. Tags...................................................................................................................6-2 6-3. Tag and Label Requirements...........................................................................6-3

Chapter 7 – Hazardous Energy Control Procedures

7-1. Safe Clearance Request ..................................................................................7-1 7-2. Isolation Procedures .........................................................................................7-2 7-3. Accepting and Issuing the Safe Clearance .....................................................7-3 7-4. Group Safe Clearance......................................................................................7-3 7-5. Temporary Protective Grounds (TPG).............................................................7-5 7-6. Adding or Releasing Safe Clearance Locks and Tags (Energy Isolation

Points) on an Existing Safe Clearance............................................................7-8 7-7. Temporary Removal of Locks and Tags (Temporary Lifts) ..........................7-10 7-8. Releasing a Safe Clearance ..........................................................................7-13 7-9. Transferring a Safe Clearance.......................................................................7-14 7-10. Multi-Shift Safe Clearance..............................................................................7-16 7-11. Release of the Safe Clearance When the PAI is Absent .............................7-17 7-12. Safe Clearance Status Changes When Personnel are Absent.................... 7-19 7-13. Loss of a Group Clearance Form (Master Tag) ............................................7-20 7-14. Safe Clearances at Remote Sites..................................................................7-21

Chapter 8 – Personal Lockouts and Operational Permits

8-1. Personal Lockout ..............................................................................................8-1 8-2. Operational Permits ..........................................................................................8-3

Chapter 9 – Caution Orders

9-1. Purpose .............................................................................................................9-1 9-2. General ..............................................................................................................9-1 9-3. Identification ......................................................................................................9-1 9-4. Issued and Released........................................................................................9-1 9-5. Documentation..................................................................................................9-1 9-6. Caution Order Form (ENG Form 1928) ...........................................................9-1 9-7. Caution Order Tags (ENG Form 1924) ...........................................................9-1 ii

Chapter 10 – Outside/Contractor Personnel

10-1. General ............................................................................................................10-1 10-2. Submittals........................................................................................................10-1 10-3. Coordination....................................................................................................10-1 10-4. Incidental Persons ..........................................................................................10-2

Chapter 11 – Committees, Inspections, and Program Review

11-1. District Safe Clearance Committee................................................................11-1 11-2. Project Safe Clearance Committee ...............................................................11-1 11-3. Periodic Inspections........................................................................................11-1 11-4. Corrective Action.............................................................................................11-2

APPENDIXES

Appendix A – Definitions

Appendix B – Sample Hazardous Energy Control Program (HECP) Forms and Tags

Appendix C – Applicable Equipment for Personal Lockout/Operational Permits – Example

Appendix D – Personnel Authorizations – Example

Appendix E – Engineering Regulation 385-1-31, The Control of Hazardous Energy

Appendix F – Bonneville Power Administration Accident Prevention Manual, Section S-6, Switching and Clearance Procedure

Appendix G – Memorandum for Record Regarding Safe Clearance Holders on Construction Contracts iii

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DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY

U.S. ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS, WALLA WALLA DISTRICT

201 NORTH 3RD AVENUE

WALLA WALLA, WA 99362-1876

CENWW-SO

Office Memorandum NWWOM 385-1-20 13 February 2020

Safety and Occupational Health Office

SAFE CLEARANCE PROGRAM FOR THE CONTROL OF HAZARDOUS ENERGY

Chapter 1 – Introduction

1-1. PURPOSE. This U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps), Northwestern Division, Walla Walla District (District), Office Memorandum (NWWOM), prescribes policies and procedures for the Safe Clearance Program for the control of hazardous energy at all facilities in the District.

a. The policies and procedures of this NWWOM are intended to:

(1) Safeguard personnel whose operating, maintenance, construction, testing, or research duties require them to work on or near equipment in which the unexpected energizing, startup, or release of any form of hazardous energy could cause personal injury or property damage.

(2) Prevent equipment damage.

(3) Protect the environment (from release of lubricating oil, control fluids, hydraulic oil, etc.).

b. The following appendixes are included in this NWWOM:

(1) Appendix A – Definitions. This appendix includes definitions pertinent to this NWWOM.

(2) Appendix B – Sample Hazardous Energy Control Program (HECP) Forms and Tags. This appendix includes samples of forms and tags used in the procedures outlined in this NWWOM.

(3) Appendix C – Applicable Equipment for Personal Lockout/Operational Permits Example. This appendix provides an example to assist each project in developing their own Applicable Equipment for Personal Lockout/Operational Permits.

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(4) Appendix D – Personnel Authorizations Example. This appendix provides an example to assist each project in developing their own Personnel Authorizations.

(5) Appendix E – Engineering Regulation 385-1-31, The Control of Hazardous Energy. This appendix provides a link to Engineering Regulation (ER) 385-1-31.

(6) Appendix F – Bonneville Power Administration Accident Prevention Manual, Section S-6, Switching and Clearance Procedure. This appendix provides District Issuing Individuals with guidance for issuing and receiving clearances, terminal clearances, hold orders, and terminal holds on transmission lines connecting to Bonneville Power Administration (BPA).

(7) Appendix G – Memorandum for Record Regarding Safe Clearance Holders on Construction Contracts. This MFR provides guidance on how Clearance Holders are determined for Construction contracts.

1-2. APPLICABILITY. The policies and procedures prescribed in this NWWOM are applicable to all employees of the District. This NWWOM meets minimum lockout/ tagout requirements for general industry and construction activities.

1-3. REFERENCES.

a. 29 Code of Federal Regulation (CFR) 1910.147, The Control of Hazardous Energy (Lockout/Tagout).

b. 29 CFR 1910.269, Electric Power Generation, Transmission, and Distribution.

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

d. ER 385-1-31, Safety and Occupational Health – The Control of Hazardous Energy. See appendix E.

e. Engineer Manual (EM) 385-1-1, Safety and Health Requirements Manual.

f. American National Standards Institute (ANSI) C2, National Electrical Safety Code.

g. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Instruction STD 1-7.3, The Control of Hazardous Energy (Lockout/Tagout) – Inspection Procedures and Interpretive Guidance.

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h. BPA, Accident Prevention Manual, Section S-6, Switching and Clearance Procedure, September 1, 2007.

1-4. DEFINITIONS. Refer to appendix A.

1-5. AUTHORITY. The authority for this NWWOM is ER 385-1-31.

1-6. EFFECTIVE DATE. This NWWOM is effective upon publication.

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SAFE CLEARANCE PROGRAM FOR THE CONTROL OF HAZARDOUS ENERGY

Chapter 2 – Responsibilities

2-1. RESPONSIBLE OFFICIAL. The Responsible Official at each project or facility has overall responsibility for the project's Safe Clearance Program and associated HECP procedures, and shall ensure that the requirements of this NWWOM are properly applied and adhered to.

a. The Operations Project Manager (OPM) is the Responsible Official and has overall responsibility for the project’s HECP. If no OPM is responsible for the location where operations and maintenance is being conducted, the person in charge of the facility is the Responsible Official.

b. The Responsible Official or designee designates, in writing, the Issuing Individuals (Issuing Authority) and Authorized Individuals (see appendix D).

(1) If a person requests a safe clearance and is not listed as an Authorized Individual (see appendix D), the Responsible Official or designee may elect to grant temporary written authorization. This temporary written authorization shall be provided to the Issuing Individual.

(2) The Responsible Official or designee is responsible for all administrative aspects of the HECP, including:

(a) Training and testing.

(b) Annual review and record keeping.

(c) Overseeing Safe Clearance Committee activities.

(d) Drafting proposed revisions to the HECP.

(e) Monitoring program compliance.

(f) Authorizing mission-essential systems and equipment for removal from service.

(g) Ensuring maintenance and retention of all safe clearances, personal lockouts (both single and multiple point), and caution order records.

(h) Preparing or directing the preparation of written procedures for clearing out equipment and the placement of tags and locks.

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(i) Maintaining a file or manual of written procedures and making it available to all Affected Personnel.

(j) Promptly preparing HECP procedures whenever new or modified equipment or changes in operating procedures or practices make it necessary.

(k) Coordinating HECP procedures between project operating and maintenance personnel, resource personnel, and contractors or other affected off site personnel.

(l) Ensuring contractors and other affected Government or non-Government off-site personnel are trained and comply with the provisions of the

HECP.

(m) Investigating alleged violations. Take corrective action as necessary.

2-2. ISSUING INDIVIDUAL. The Issuing Individual maintains control of hazardous energy sources and operating equipment and systems, including the Safe Clearance Software Program. Upon issuance of a safe clearance, the Issuing Individual temporarily relinquishes control of equipment to the 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) (NWW Form 385-1) (see appendix B) has been submitted.

c. Review requests for safe clearances and switching orders, 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 paperwork.

e. Make all necessary arrangements for interruption of services, including notification of customers.

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 procedures.

h. Record all safe clearance operations as required.

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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.

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

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

l. Ensure Temporary Protective Grounds (TPG) are installed and hang TPG tags (see appendix B).

m. 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. See “Issuing Individual Designated Alternate” in appendix A. Recording status changes with approval from the Issuing Individual is permissible

2-3. PRINCIPAL AUTHORIZED INDIVIDUAL (PAI). This is the Authorized Individual who requested and holds the safe clearance. The PAI, also called Clearance Holder, shall:

a. Request safe clearances and submit an approved AHA (NWW Form 385-1) (see appendix B) for the work.

b. Review the safe clearance request with the Issuing Individual 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 in accordance with Chapter 7 procedures.

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 done.

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

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

(4) The safe clearance is released to the Issuing Individual.

h. Keep the Issuing Individual informed of the status of the work.

i. Coordinate with other PAIs and Affected Personnel when:

(1) Requesting or releasing a Safe Clearance that includes isolation points that are part of another PAI’s Safe Clearance.

(2) Adding or releasing clearance isolation points.

(3) Requesting temporary lifts.

(4) Restoring isolation points after a temporary lift.

(5) Installing or removing grounds.

j. Obtain permission from the Issuing Individual before making any change to the status of the safe clearance.

k. Assume full responsibility for safeguarding the Group Clearance Form (Master Tag) (see appendix B), Safe Clearance Lock Box and ensure all Affected Personnel sign on and off the safe clearance per procedures, legibly and in ink.

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

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

2-4. AUTHORIZED INDIVIDUAL. Authorized Individuals are qualified to hold safe clearances, operational permits, and personal lockouts as identified by the Responsible Official (see appendix D). An Authorized Individual may act in the capacity of a PAI or an Affected Person as appropriate.

2-5. AFFECTED PERSONNEL. Affected Personnel perform servicing and maintenance within the boundary of the safe clearance. All Affected Persons shall:

a. Verify that the safe clearance provides adequate protection for the work to be performed prior to signing on the Group Clearance Form (Master Tag) (see appendix B).

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b. Report to the Issuing Individual any circumstances not meeting the requirements of the HECP.

c. Obtain permission from the PAI prior to performing work under a safe clearance. (See §3-2(s))

d. Sign on and off, in ink, the Group Clearance Form (Master Tag).

e. Apply and remove their personal locks as required.

2-6. ALL EMPLOYEES. All employees shall report procedural errors or alleged violations to the Issuing Individual, their supervisors, or the Responsible Official. All personnel shall demonstrate a spirit of cooperation and shared responsibility for the implementation of the HECP. Any potentially unsafe conditions shall be reported to the Issuing Individual.

2-7. 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 Awareness Training to include instruction regarding HECP procedures and the prohibition of removing a lockout or tagout. Awareness Training per Chapter 5, Section 3 may be provided by the RO or their designee.

a. All vendors and visitors shall be escorted at all times by the PAI, an Authorized Individual, or an Affected Person.

b. Escorts are responsible for signing on/off the Group Clearance Form (Master Tag) (see appendix B) and denoting the number of people escorted.

c. Escorts shall apply or remove their personal locks as required.

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SAFE CLEARANCE PROGRAM FOR THE CONTROL OF HAZARDOUS ENERGY

Chapter 3 – Policies and Rules

3-1. GENERAL. The intent of this policy is to protect personnel, equipment, and the environment from damage through the use of HECP procedures. All energy sources shall be controlled before performing work, service, or maintenance on equipment. In circumstances requiring safe clearances, personnel and resources shall not be considered protected until all HECP procedures and special instructions have been completed.

a. A copy of the approved AHA (NWW Form 385-1) (see appendix B) shall be submitted with the safe clearance request.

b. Use lockout where isolation points are capable of being locked out. Tags shall always accompany locks.

c. Tagout only is permitted when isolation points are not capable of being locked.

d. Personnel shall be trained on the purpose and application of the HECP and associated procedures.

e. Coordinate servicing and maintenance activities when more than one employer, workgroup, or facility is involved or affected.

f. Perform periodic inspections to assure continued program compliance.

g. All modified, rehabilitated, or new equipment shall be capable of accepting lockout devices.

h. Employees will be notified of their rights and responsibilities with regard to reporting unsafe conditions and/or procedures.

i. All switching and equipment operations shall be authorized by the Issuing Individual, to include Operational Permits, Personal Lockouts, and Remote Clearances on equipment subject to HECP procedures.

3-2. PROCEDURAL REQUIREMENTS.

a. Before any task is performed, the worker shall determine whether the provisions of paragraph 3-1 require a safe clearance. If one is required, personnel and equipment shall not be considered protected until all applicable measures of the HECP are completed.

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b. Only qualified personnel (Issuing Individual or Designated Alternate) shall be permitted to perform the switching, valving, and tagging steps of the safe clearance.

c. Issuing Individuals may receive safe clearances issued to the position for the following conditions:

(1) Line terminal clearances on tie lines and supply lines to and from outside utilities or the power marketing agency, BPA, to establish safe working conditions within areas of high voltage equipment energized by these authorities. (See appendix F for BPA Accident Prevention Manual, Section S-6, Switching and Clearance Procedure.)

(2) To temporarily hold defective equipment out of service in emergency conditions or prevent operation of malfunctioning equipment that might be damaged if operated.

(3) In cases where emergency repair work is needed in order to restore critical equipment to service and no Authorized Individuals are available to take clearances.

d. Requests for safe clearances should be made a minimum of 24 hours in advance to give the Issuing Individual time to prepare. Large, complex, or mission essential clearances will typically require additional time to prepare, review, and to schedule outages. Professional consideration on behalf of both the requester and the Issuing Individual shall be observed.

e. The following entries in the Station Log Book shall be in red ink:

(1) Request of the safe clearance.

(2) Issue of the safe clearance.

(3) Adding a clearance point.

(4) Installation of TPGs.

(5) Adding TPG tags (see appendix B).

(6) Temporary lifts and re-hangs of clearance and TPG tags (see appendix B).

(7) Change of PAI on a multi-shift safe clearance.

(8) Safe Clearance transfers.

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f. The following entries in the Station Log Book shall be in green ink:

(1) Release of a safe clearance.

(2) Release of TPG tags (see appendix B).

(3) Removal of TPGs.

(4) Release of a clearance point.

g. Written standard HECP procedures, including switching orders, shall be developed at each work site for all equipment supplied with multiple sources of hazardous energy.

h. Canned clearances should be used as a starting point or reference for the requested clearance, not a final trusted solution.

i. The Responsible Official or designated alternate shall grant approval for the removal from service of any equipment that may affect the mission of the project.

j. All verbal communications shall be repeated back to avoid misunderstanding.

This shall include the safe clearance number, equipment under safe clearance, changes to be made, and other relevant information.

k. Prior to beginning work, all Affected Personnel should verify that stored or residual hazardous energy is isolated, relieved, bled off, disconnected, restrained or absent of voltage.

l. All safe clearances shall have a Group Clearance Form (Master Tag) (see appendix B) attached to the PAI copy of the Safe Clearance Order Form (see appendix B) to support the requirements for changes of status and group safe clearances.

m. Locks will be used on all isolation points capable of being locked out. Safe clearance locks will only be applied to isolation points that have been positioned and have a tag hung. Tags may be hung on the lock shank in the case of personal lockouts.

n. When isolation points are not capable of being locked, then tagout only is permitted. When tagout alone is used, the following conditions shall be met:

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

(2) When a safe clearance tag (ENG Form 1925) (see appendix B) is attached to an isolation point, it shall be treated as being a locked point and shall never be operated with the tag attached.

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(3) Tags will be placed so they are readily identifiable as an isolation point.

(4) Additional means shall be employed to provide a level of protection equivalent to that provided by a lock. This can consist of any of the following:

(a) Opening both the energy isolating circuit breaker and its associated disconnect.

(b) Removal of a circuit element (i.e., a fuse).

(c) Racking out or removing the circuit breaker.

(d) Opening and applying a tagout to the circuit breaker (energy isolation device), opening the associated control switch or circuit, and applying a tagout device to it.

(e) Placing a blocking mechanism over the operating handle of a disconnect so that the handle is blocked from closing the circuit.

(f) Grounding the circuit upon which work is to be performed.

o. Computer software, or any other type of programming, shall not be used as an isolation point.

p. The safe clearance lock sets shall be stored and maintained by the Issuing Individuals. A safe clearance lock set will be issued to the PAI for isolation point lockout. All excess locks will be placed in the Group Lock Box. After the safe clearance has been released, the complete safe clearance lock set will be returned to the Issuing Individual.

q. The PAI’s personal lock will be the first on the Group Lock Box and the last to be removed.

r. The PAI is not required to sign on to the Group Clearance Form (Master Tag), but will be cognizant of all Affected Personnel signing on to their safe clearance and of the status of all work to be performed.

s. All Affected Persons must coordinate with the PAI prior to signing onto a safe clearance. The PAI need not be present for Affected Persons to sign on to their Group Clearance Form (Master Tag) if they have signed on previously. Lacking coordination, and in the absence of the PAI, written approval to sign onto the clearance must be obtained from the PAI’s supervisor and provided to the Issuing Individual.

t. Temporary lifts shall be of short duration. If the temporary lift is for more than 24 hours, the temporary lift is to be re-recorded daily on the Group Clearance Form

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(Master Tag) by the II and acknowledged by the PAI by initialing the Group Clearance Form as an active temporary lift.

v. For diving operations, it is preferred that the Government dive inspector (DSI) and the dive crew supervisor be issued parallel safe clearances. A Project dive POC will be identified to provide technical safe clearance support. When the DSI is not appropriate for holding a safe clearance, the District Dive Coordinator (or designee), in coordination with the dive proponent (e.g., PM, project owner, etc.) shall ensure an appropriate clearance holder has been identified.

w. A Corps Quality Assurance Representative (QAR), when authorized, may be issued a safe clearance. The QAR shall not receive a safe clearance for a contractor.

x. Safe clearance violations are taken very seriously since they can result in injury, damage to equipment, or loss of life. The Responsible Official shall ensure that alleged violations are investigated. Violators of this program may require training and retesting.

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SAFE CLEARANCE PROGRAM FOR THE CONTROL OF HAZARDOUS ENERGY

Chapter 4 – Emergency Procedures

4-1. SUSPENSION OF REQUIREMENTS. In an emergency (i.e., imminent threat to life or limb), the Responsible Official or the designated representative may modify or suspend any of these HECP requirements temporarily as may be considered necessary to permit proper handling of the specific emergency. The Appendix D provides an example to assist each project in developing their own Personnel Authorizations. This document will include the Responsible Official and designated representative.

4-2. SAFETY OF PERSONNEL. In handling such emergencies, safety of human life shall be given predominant consideration.

4-3. EMERGENCY SWITCHING. If emergency switching is required and the PAI is not on site or not available to be notified, the Issuing Individual or designee may perform emergency switching. If the Issuing Individual is incapacitated, any qualified person who is knowledgeable on the equipment may perform the emergency switching.

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SAFE CLEARANCE PROGRAM FOR THE CONTROL OF HAZARDOUS ENERGY

Chapter 5 – Training

5-1. GENERAL. Progressive training on the HECP shall be provided to personnel.

Awareness, Affected Personnel, Authorized Individual, and Issuing Individual training and/or testing is provided to individuals commensurate with their responsibilities.

5-2. NEW EMPLOYEES. New employees must be provided awareness training prior to entering an area where energy control procedures are being used.

5-3. AWARENESS TRAINING. Awareness training for visitors, vendors, and other personnel who may be in an area where energy control procedures are being used must include:

a. Instruction regarding purpose of HECP procedures.

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

c. A safe clearance tag (ENG Form 1925) (see appendix B) requires respect equal to that of a lock.

d. Prohibition from operating equipment.

e. Recognition of HECP locks and tags.

5-4. AFFECTED PERSONNEL TRAINING. Affected Personnel must be trained in:

a. Awareness training.

b. The limitation of safe clearance tags when used without locks.

c. The type and magnitude of energy present in the workplace.

d. Group safe clearance procedures and associated forms.

e. The use of personal locks.

f. Definitions and terms.

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5-5. AUTHORIZED INDIVIDUAL TRAINING. Authorized Individual training shall include:

a. Affected Personnel training.

b. Recognizing relevant hazardous energy sources.

c. The methods and means for energy isolation and control.

d. Requirements for personal lockouts and operational permits.

e. Circumstances that require clearances.

f. All clearance procedures, including the following:

(1) Local policies.

(2) Request.

(3) Issue.

(4) Status change.

(5) Release.

(6) Transfer.

(7) TPGs.

5-6. ISSUING INDIVIDUAL TRAINING. Issuing Individual training and abilities shall include:

a. Authorized Individual training.

b. Administrative procedures.

c. Logbook entries.

d. Safe Clearance Software Program.

e. Thorough knowledge of facility system operation and isolation (site-specific by Operating Project).

f. External agency HECP procedures, as applicable (site-specific by Operating Project).

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5-7. RETRAINING. HECP retraining for employees shall be provided at least every twelve months, followed by a written assessment, or when any of the following occurs:

a. A periodic inspection reveals deviations from procedures.

b. Inadequacies in knowledge or use of HECP procedures are discovered.

c. There is a change in job assignment or a change in the HECP.

All employees shall complete refresher training within 30 days of the annual requirement to maintain their qualifications for the HECP Personnel Authorizations in appendix D.

5-8. EQUIPMENT CHANGES AND RETRAINING. Equipment and/or system training shall be provided when a change in hazards requires new or different HECP isolation.

5-9. TRAINING DOCUMENTATION. Training documentation shall contain the individual’s name, date of training, instructor’s name, and outline of training content.

Training records shall be maintained at the project for at least two years.

5-10. TRAINING OF CONTRACTORS. While using the Corps’ HECP, outside and contractor personnel will be trained to the appropriate level and successfully pass a written test.

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SAFE CLEARANCE PROGRAM FOR THE CONTROL OF HAZARDOUS ENERGY

Chapter 6 – Locks and Tags

6-1. LOCKS AND LOCKOUT DEVICES.

a. Locks shall be capable of withstanding environmental conditions and 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 lock sets will be standardized within every facility, and recognizable as HECP locks. Clearance lock sets will be color coded by set.

(1) Clearance locks shall have a colored, solid body design. Colors may not include natural metal (silver, gray, or brass).

(2) Lock shackles should be 1/4 inch in diameter or less and be at least 1 1/2 inches long.

(3) Locks in a color group must be individually identified by means of permanently stamped sequential numbering and/or lettering.

c. Lockout devices 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.

(1) Lockout hasps should be utilized where multiple lockouts are likely to occur.

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

d. Personal locks shall have the following characteristics and limitations:

(1) A label that includes the name of the person responsible for the lock and his/her work unit department.

(2) Personal locks should be a natural metal color (silver, gray, or brass), a laminated configuration, and may incorporate a colored band at the base for craft identification if desired.

(3) Lock shackles should be 1/4 inch in diameter or less and be at least 1 1/2 inches long.

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(4) Each individual’s personal locks should be keyed the same. Lock sets issued to individuals shall be keyed uniquely.

(5) Personal locks shall not be shared or loaned between individuals.

(6) All keys to personal locks must remain under the control of the person to whom the locks are issued.

(7) Master keys shall not be allowed.

(8) Personal locks will be issued by each project.

e. Multi-shift PAI locks will be issued by the Issuing Individual for use during multi-shift safe clearances. Multi-shift PAI locks will be used exclusively for these clearances instead of a personal lock.

f. Only one key will be issued for each clearance or personal lock set. All duplicate personal lock set keys will be destroyed. All duplicate safe clearance lock set keys shall be kept in a separate locked safe to be accessed only by the Responsible Official. No master key shall exist for personal or safe clearance lock sets.

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

(2) 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 safekeeping.

6-2. TAGS. Tags shall be standardized within every facility (see appendix B).

a. Safe clearance tags shall be red and have content and format equivalent to the example of Red Danger Tag / Danger - Do Not Operate Tag (ENG Form 1925), shown in appendix B. At a minimum, this shall include the clearance number, tag number, initial of the person who positioned the device being tagged, name and initials of the PAI to whom the safe clearance has been issued, the hazardous energy control device being held, and its required configuration (OPEN, CLOSED, ON, OFF).

b. Personal lockout tags shall be red with the name of the holder and the phrases “Personal Lockout - DO NOT OPERATE - DO NOT REMOVE” (see appendix B).

c. A TPG tag shall be red. The tag shall be labeled with the phrase “Temporary Protective Ground – DO NOT REMOVE” (see appendix B). Additional information provided by a card label attached to the TPG tag shall include the associated clearance number, tag number, location of the TPG, initial of the Issuing Individual or designee who placed the tag, and the name and initials of the PAI to whom the TPG has been

6-2 issued. TPGs are placed after the safe clearance is accepted and are not considered part of the clearance. Locks are not required on TPGs.

d. Caution order tags shall be yellow and have content and format equivalent to the example of Yellow Caution Tag (caution order tag) (ENG Form 1924) (see appendix B).

e. Operational permit tags shall be blue and contain the name of the holder and the phrase “Operational Permit – DO NOT REMOVE” (see appendix B).

6-3. TAG AND LABEL REQUIREMENTS.

a. Tags shall 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.

b. Tags shall be attached by means that 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 which have the basic characteristics of being at least equivalent to a one-piece, all-environment-tolerant nylon cable tie. Clearance tags shall not be hung from locks. A personal lockout tag (see appendix B) may be hung from a personal lock shank.

c. Computer-generated labels containing the required information may be attached to the safe clearance tag (ENG Form 1925) (see appendix B) and/or TPG tags (see appendix B).

d. Writing on the tags shall be legible and understandable.

e. Printed text on the tag shall be done with materials that remain legible in the environment to which it is exposed, or the tag shall be suitably covered.

f. Tags will be placed so they are readily identifiable as an isolation point.

g. A single TPG tag may be used for 3-phase grounds and will be placed on the grounding point if feasible, or as close to the grounding point as possible if the location and/or construction of the grounding point makes applying the tag difficult.

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SAFE CLEARANCE PROGRAM FOR THE CONTROL OF HAZARDOUS ENERGY

Chapter 7 – Hazardous Energy Control Procedures

7-1. SAFE CLEARANCE REQUEST.

a. The PAI will provide an approved copy of the AHA (NWW Form 385-1) (see appendix B) for the work. The PAI will coordinate with the Issuing Individual and provide the following information on the safe clearance request form (see appendix B for example):

(1) The equipment or system to be cleared.

(2) The purpose/scope of work for the safe clearance.

(3) The energy isolation points to be cleared to perform the work safely.

(4) The physical barriers, TPGs, blind flange/piping blanks, or bulkheads that shall be used, including locations.

(5) The date and time the safe clearance is required.

(6) 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.

b. The Issuing Individual receiving the safe clearance request shall:

(1) Verify that an approved AHA (NWW Form 385-1) is submitted with the safe clearance request.

(2) Ensure that the type, magnitude, and hazards of the energy to be controlled has been identified.

Book.

(3) Notate the receipt of the safe clearance request in the Station Log

(4) Prepare the Safe Clearance Order Form (see appendix B), listing the switching order steps in a sequence that provides the greatest measure of safety.

(5) Prepare the PAI’s copy of the Safe Clearance Order Form, Group Clearance Form (Master Tag), and safe clearance tags (see appendix B).

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7-2. ISOLATION PROCEDURES.

a. The Issuing Individual or Issuing Individual Designated Alternate shall:

(1) Ensure the equipment is shut down in accordance with established operational procedures.

(2) Position all equipment controls, valves, switches, disconnects, breakers, etc. in the order listed on the Safe Clearance Order Form (see appendix B).

Deviations from this switching order may be required per varying plant conditions at the discretion of the Issuing Individual.

(3) Bleed off or otherwise render safe all stored or residual energy.

(4) Install all lockout/tagout devices (e.g., hasps, chains, etc.) and place each safe clearance tag (ENG Form 1925) (see appendix B).

(5) Initial each safe clearance tag in the space provided.

(6) Initial the Safe Clearance Order Form next to the number for each tag hung.

(7) Notify the PAI that HECP procedures have been completed.

(8) Provide the PAI with a copy of the Safe Clearance Order Form.

(9) Provide a safe clearance lock set and lock box to the PAI.

(10) Identify the lock box, lock set number and color on the Safe Clearance Order Form.

b. The PAI shall:

(1) Use his/her copy of the Safe Clearance Order Form to verify that each isolation device is in the correct position. Operator assistance may be necessary to validate the positioning.

(2) Verify that all stored or residual energy has been bled off or otherwise rendered safe when feasible.

(3) Secure the energy isolation device with a safe clearance lock.

(4) Initial each safe clearance tag in the space provided.

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(5) Initial his/her copy of the Safe Clearance Order Form next to the number for each tag hung.

(6) After all energy isolation points have been locked, place any extra locks and the safe clearance lock set key in a safe clearance lock box.

(7) Place his/her personal lock on the safe clearance lock box.

7-3. ACCEPTING AND ISSUING THE SAFE CLEARANCE.

a. The PAI shall sign the Safe Clearance Order Form (see appendix B) to accept the safe clearance and assume full responsibility for the system or equipment under clearance.

b. The Issuing Individual shall:

(1) Issue the safe clearance to the PAI and make the required entries on the Safe Clearance Order Form.

(2) Log the issuing of the safe clearance in the Station Log Book in red ink including the safe clearance number, purpose, the date and time, and the name of the

PAI.

(3) If a partial safe clearance is issued (i.e., not all clearance tags are hung), specify in the Station Log Book and on the Group Clearance Form (Master Tag) those safe clearance tags that are issued.

(4) Attach the Group Clearance Form (Master Tag) and continuation sheets to the PAI’s copy of the Safe Clearance Order Form. These continuation sheets shall be numbered sequentially and documented on the Safe Clearance Order Form (see appendix B).

7-4. GROUP SAFE CLEARANCE.

a. It is standard practice in the District that all safe clearances are issued with the capability to be group safe clearances. All clearances are issued with a Group Clearance Form (Master Tag) (see appendix B). The Authorized Individual requesting the safe clearance becomes the PAI when the safe clearance is accepted. The PAI will be kept informed of work status by all Affected Persons. The PAI is responsible for coordination and administration of the group safe clearance.

b. Each Affected Person needing protection under a group safe clearance shall:

(1) Obtain permission from the PAI. (See § 3-2(s))

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(2) Sign and initial the top of the Group Clearance Form (Master Tag), legibly and in ink, to verify that he/she fully comprehends the details of the job, AHA (NWW Form 385-1) (see appendix B), the energy isolation points, and the lockout/tagout devices installed.

(3) Place his/her personal lock on the Group Lock Box and sign on to the Group Clearance Form (Master Tag) by entering the date, time, and initials.

(4) After completing work, sign off the Group Clearance Form (Master Tag) by entering the date, time, and initials, and remove his/her personal lock from the Group Lock Box.

(5) Keep the PAI updated on status of work.

(6) Sign off the Group Clearance Form (Master Tag) and remove his/her personal lock from the Group Lock Box under the following conditions:

(a) At the request of the PAI.

(b) When work is complete.

(c) When absence of the Affected Person is scheduled (e.g., annual leave).

c. Incidental Personnel will be escorted at all times while in an affected area protected by a safe clearance.

(1) The Escort shall obtain permission from the PAI prior to Incidental Personnel signing onto the Group Clearance Form (Master Tag).

(2) When signing onto the Group Clearance Form (Master Tag), the Escort will annotate his/her escort status in the change of status column by writing the word “Escort” and the number of Incidental Personnel being escorted.

(3) The Escort will place his/her personal lock on the group lock box and sign onto the Group Clearance Form (Master Tag) by entering the date, time, and initials.

(4) Incidental Personnel will sign onto the Group Clearance Form (Master Tag) by entering the date, time, and initials. Each will write the word “visitor” and his/her name in the change of status column. They will not write their names and initials on the top section of the form as Affected Persons do.

(5) Upon exiting the affected area, Incidental Personnel will sign off the Group Clearance Form (Master Tag) by entering the date, time, and initials.

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(6) After the Escort has verified that all Incidental Personnel have signed off the Group Clearance Form (Master Tag), he/she will remove his/her lock from the group lock box and sign off the Group Clearance Form (Master Tag).

(7) The Escort should inform the PAI when all Incidental Personnel have signed off the safe clearance and exited the affected area.

7-5. TEMPORARY PROTECTIVE GROUNDS (TPG).

a. TPGs are devices that dissipate energy and are part of the HECP procedures. They are placed after the safe clearance has been accepted, but are not considered to be an energy isolation point of the safe clearance.

b. TPGs shall be tracked and administered on the Safe Clearance Order Form (see appendix B) for accountability and personal safety.

c. All TPGs shall be installed or removed by, or under the direct supervision of, a Qualified Electrical Worker.

d. The following steps shall be completed to install TPGs. These steps will be completed within the timeframe of a single shift.

(1) The circuit to be grounded shall be under a safe clearance, issued by the Issuing Individual and accepted by the PAI.

(2) All Affected Persons shall sign off the Group Clearance Form (Master Tag), remove his/her personal lock from the Group Lock Box, and vacate the area where protection from hazardous energy is required.

(3) The PAI requests the installation of TPGs.

(4) The Issuing Individual shall authorize the installation of TPGs.

(5) The PAI shall coordinate with a Qualified Electrical Worker to install TPGs.

(6) The Qualified Electrical Worker who installs the TPGs shall sign on to the Group Clearance Form (Master Tag) (see appendix B) and place his/her personal lock on the Group Lock Box.

(7) The Qualified Electrical Worker shall install the TPGs in accordance with accepted industry standards.

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(8) After the TPGs are installed, the Qualified Electrical Worker shall sign off the Group Clearance Form (Master Tag), remove his/her personal lock from the Group Lock Box, and notify the Issuing Individual and the PAI.

(10) The Issuing Individual or Issuing Individual Designated Alternate shall ensure a completed TPG tag (see appendix B) is attached in a conspicuous location (See § 6-3(g)), and shall initial the tag and the Safe Clearance Order Form next to the number of the TPG installed.

(11) The PAI shall verify the location and initial the TPG tag and the corresponding entry on his/her copy of the Safe Clearance Order Form.

(12) The Issuing Individual shall record and initial the addition of the TPGs on the Group Clearance Form (Master Tag).

(13) The PAI will verify and initial the addition of the TPGs on the Group Clearance Form (Master Tag).

(14) All Affected Persons will be acknowledging acceptance of the TPG when signing on to the master tag while the TPGs are in place.

(15) The Issuing Individual shall record the installation of the TPGs and the addition of the TPG tags in the Station Log Book in red ink.

d. The following steps shall be completed to release or temporarily lift TPGs. These steps will be completed within the timeframe of a single shift.

(1) The PAI will notify all Affected Persons that TPGs will be removed.

(2) All Affected Persons shall sign off the Group Clearance Form, (Master Tag) acknowledging acceptance of the proposed removal of TPG’s and, remove his/her personal lock from the Group Lock Box, and vacate the area where protection from hazardous energy is required.

(3) The PAI shall request the release or lift of the TPG tags and provide the Issuing Individual the safe clearance and TPG tag numbers.

(4) The Issuing Individual shall record and initial the release or lift of the TPG tags on the Group Clearance Form (Master Tag).

(5) The PAI will verify the release or lift of the TPG tags by initialing the Group Clearance Form (Master Tag) and mark “released”, if applicable, on the corresponding entry on the PAI copy of the Safe Clearance Order Form.

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(6) The Issuing Individual or Issuing Individual Designated Alternate shall ensure that all released…