What is the function of a "tag" in lockout/tagout procedures?

The function of a "tag" in lockout/tagout procedures is primarily to warn of the potential for residual hazards. Tags serve as visual indicators that signal to workers that equipment should not be operated while maintenance or service is being performed. They convey crucial safety information and alert employees to the presence of hazards that could lead to injury if the equipment were inadvertently re-energized. This is an essential aspect of ensuring worker safety, as it helps to prevent accidents that may arise from unexpected machine operation.

Other functions, such as indicating the last maintenance date, providing emergency contact instructions, or identifying the authorized user, are less central to the core purpose of tag use within lockout/tagout protocols. While there may be instances where such information is relevant to maintenance procedures, the primary role of a tag is to visibly mark hazards and protect workers by preventing accidental machine start-up. This focus on hazard communication is fundamental to the effectiveness of lockout/tagout practices.