Isolation Valves Safety

Isolation Valves

According to the definition section in the OSHA lockout/tagout standard, an energy isolation device is “a mechanical device that physically prevents the transmission or release of energy. . . “. The OSHA definition goes on to explain that energy isolation devices include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • A manually operated electrical circuit breaker;
  • A disconnect switch;
  • A manually operated switch by which the conductors of a circuit can be disconnected from all ungrounded supply conductors, and, in addition, no pole can be operated independently;
  • A line valve;
  • A block; and,
  • Any similar device used to block or isolate energy.

*Toolbox Talk based on NMGC submitted by Jeff Farrell P-66 Bayway