ECPL Signs

The ECPL sign (Energy Control Power Lockout) shows the system's lockout points and lists procedures for proper machine lockout. ALWAYS follow the instructions on this sign for proper machine lockout.

Example Only, See ECPL on Machine for Actual

DANGER:

LOCKOUT OPERATIONS SHOULD BE PERFORMED AS INSTRUCTED ON THE ECPL SIGN(S) POSTED ON THE EQUIPMENT. The information currently posted on the machine ECPL placard(s) is the authoritative, current procedure. Due to the possibility of future changes being made to the equipment, this ITRS and any associated manual(s) cannot be guaranteed to be current.

Please refer to the sign(s) posted on the equipment. Failure to observe the lockout procedures AS POSTED ON THE EQUIPMENT could result in injury or death and/or could cause severe equipment damage.

  • Consult the graphic lockout procedure, ECPL sign, posted on the machine before performing any maintenance or repair task. No person should begin maintenance repairs until the proper ECPL procedures are completed. The employee should contact his/her immediate supervisor if there are any questions about the identification of potential energy sources.
  • When service or maintenance is to be conducted, equipment must be put in the off position via energy isolating devices such as electrical disconnects and valves.
  • Before shutting down the equipment to lockout energy sources, the employee performing the procedure or the supervisor will inform affected employees of the intention to shut down the equipment.
  • If the machine or equipment is operating, it must be shut down using normal shutdown procedures.

ECPL Tags

Essentially Lockout Tags are utilized as a method of warning personnel of a potential hazard associated with a particular energy device.They are usually attached to or are placed in close proximity to energy isolating devices. Lockout Tags alone do not provide the physical restraint on the energy device, this can only be provided by a lock. Understanding the proper meaning of a Lockout Tag is necessary to prevent a false sense of security around potential hazards on the machine. Lockout Tags are securely attached to energy isolating devices so that they cannot become inadvertently or accidentally detached. The Lockout Tags shown below illustrate some of the most common lockout designations.