Equipment, Tools, and Tagging

Welcome back, let's Build Smart & Build Safe! We’ve covered response and orientation basics. Today, we focus on the rules governing the most frequent hazard source on site: Equipment, Tools, and Tagging.

Every worker must adhere to strict rules about using, inspecting, and maintaining all assets on the job site.

1. Training and Authorization

The fundamental rule for tools and equipment: If you are not trained, certified, and authorized to operate a piece of equipment, do not use it.

• Certification: Only personnel with current, verified training cards (e.g., for forklifts, aerial lifts, rigging) are permitted to operate that specific equipment.

• Inspections: Before using any power tool or piece of equipment, perform a quick visual inspection. Check guards, cables, hoses, and general condition. If you find damage, take it out of service.

2. Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) Procedures

Any worker performing maintenance, repair, or cleaning on equipment that could unexpectedly start up or release stored energy (electrical, hydraulic, mechanical) must follow Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) procedures.

• The Rule: Shut down the machine, isolate the power source, and place a lock and tag on the energy isolating device. Your life is on your lock. Never touch a lock or tag placed by another worker.

3. The Tagging System (Status Control)

Tagging is the simple visual system used to communicate the status of tools and temporary structures:

• Red Tag ("DO NOT USE"): Applied to damaged equipment (e.g., frayed extension cords, broken scaffolds, malfunctioning tools). A Red Tag means the item is immediately out of service and requires repair or disposal.

• Yellow Tag ("Use with Caution/Inspection Pending"): Often used on scaffolding or lifts when a minor non-compliance issue is noted, or when a final inspection is needed.

• Green Tag ("Safe to Use"): Most often used on scaffolding to indicate it has been inspected by a Competent Person and is safe for use under the stated conditions.

Always check the tag before you use any equipment or structure.

Tomorrow, on Fall Protection Friday, we'll cover the single most powerful rule on the site: the Stop Work Authority.

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-The Safety Man