(1) Use tags as a temporary means of warning employees of a hazardous condition, especially defective equipment. Tags are not a complete warning method, but should be used until the hazard can be eliminated.

For example: The employer may use a "do not start" tag on power equipment for a short time until the switch in the system can be locked out; the employer may use a "defective equipment" tag on a damaged ladder while arrangements are made for the ladder to be taken out of service and repaired.

(2) Use of accident prevention tags.

(a) Use tags as a warning to prevent accidental injury or illness to employees who are exposed to hazardous or potentially hazardous conditions, equipment or operations that are out of the ordinary, unexpected or not readily apparent.

(b) Use tags until the identified hazard is eliminated or the hazardous operation is completed. Tags are not necessary if signs, guarding, or other protection is used.

(c) Place "do not start" tags in a conspicuous location and, if possible, so that they block the starting mechanism that would cause hazardous conditions if the equipment was energized.

(3) General accident prevention tag specifications.

(a) Tags must contain a signal word and a major message. The signal word must be either "danger" or "caution."

(b) The signal word must be readable at least five feet from the hazard.

(c) The signal word and the major message must be understandable to all employees who may be exposed to the identified hazard.

(d) Inform all employees of the meaning of the tags used throughout the workplace and what special precautions are necessary.

(e) Attach tags as closely as is safely possible to the hazard. Attach the tags so as to prevent loss or unintentional removal.

(f) The tag and attachment method must be constructed of material that is not likely to deteriorate.

(4) The employer may use warning tags to represent a hazard level between "caution" and "danger," instead of the required "caution" tag, if they have a signal word of "warning" and an appropriate major message.

(5) Use "out of order" tags only to indicate that a piece of equipment, machinery, etc., is out of order and that it might present a hazard if used.

PDFWAC 296-307-33011

Proper uses of accident prevention tags.