According to NFPA 70E Section 120.2(H), two forms of hazardous electrical energy control are permitted:

• The simple lockout/tagout procedure, OR
• The complex lockout/tagout procedure

For the simple lockout/tagout, a written lockout/tagout plan is not required and there is never more than one source of electrical energy. The qualified person performing the work is in charge and is responsible for their own lockout/tagout.

A complex lockout/tagout usually involves more than one source of energy and often involves more than one single disconnecting means. For the complex lockout/tagout, the person in charge shall have responsibility of the overall project and a written plan prepared before each lockout/tagout application.

Below is a sample of NFPA 70E. For the complete section, see the actual NFPA 70E text at NFPA.ORG. Once there, click on the free access link to NFPA 70E.

120.4(A)(5) Complex Lockout/Tagout Procedure.

(a) A complex lockout/tagout procedure shall be permitted where one or more of the following exists:

(1) Multiple energy source

(2) Multiple crews

(3) Multiple crafts

(4) Multiple locations

(5) Multiple employers

(6) Multiple disconnecting means

(7) Particular sequences

(8) Job or task that continues for more than one work period

(b) All complex lockout/tagout procedures shall require a written plan of execution that identifies the person in charge.

(c) The complex lockout/tagout procedure shall vest primary responsibility in an authorized employee for employees working under the protection of a group lockout or tagout device, such as an operation lock or lockbox. The person in charge shall be held accountable for safe execution of the complex lockout/tagout.

(d) Each authorized employee shall affix a personal lockout or tagout device to the group lockout device, group lockbox, or comparable mechanism when he or she begins work and shall remove those devices when he or she stops working on the machine or equipment being serviced or maintained.

(e) All complex lockout/tagout plans shall identify the method to account for all persons who might be exposed to electrical hazards in the course of the lockout/tagout.