Lockout/tagout training is critical to ensure that equipment can be placed into an electrically safe work condition before it is serviced. Lockout/tagout training is required for all employees involved in or affected by the lockout/tagout procedures required by 120.2.

Not all employees will be the ones conducting the actual work on electrical equipment, but many employees may be affected when the one performing the work shuts off the power to a circuit or electrical panel to service the equipment. It is important that all those affected by the deenergized circuit are trained and understand what it means when a circuit is deenergized and locked out.

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.

110.2(B) Lockout/Tagout Procedure Training.

(1) Initial Training. Employees involved in or affected by the lockout/tagout procedures required by 120.2 shall be trained in the following:

(1) The lockout/tagout procedures

(2) Their responsibility in the execution of the procedures

(2) Retraining. Retraining in the lockout/tagout procedures shall be performed as follows:

(1) When the procedures are revised

(2) At intervals not to exceed 3 years

(3) When supervision or annual inspections indicate that the employee is not complying with the lockout/tagout procedures

(3) Lockout/Tagout Training Documentation.

(a) The employer shall document that each employee has received the training required by 110.2(B).

(b) The documentation shall be made when the employee demonstrates proficiency in the work practices involved.

(c) The documentation shall contain the content of the training, each employee’s name, and the dates of the training.