Lockout stations allow workers to store their lockout safety equipment (that is, equipment used to lock out machines while being repaired or serviced) in a safe, accessible manner when they are off the clock and away from work (hence the name “lockout” station). When employees are working on machines (that is, repairing them or servicing them), employees need to ensure that there are no accidental starts of those machines, because accidental starts can cause serious harm to employees. The second portion of lockout/tagout procedures gives employers guidelines for preventing accidental starts of machines during periods when an employee is working on that machine (e.g., by requiring employers to use lockout stations for securing machines). Lockout stations are convenient for employees to use when they need to secure a machine, and serve to remind all employees who work near a locked-out machine that they also must take steps to ensure that they are working with safety in mind.

Lockout stations have been designed to be very functional for those who will use them. Lockout stations contain clearly labeled equipment, and have step-by-step instructions for the use of that equipment, so that employees can easily determine how to safely access the equipment and to perform the necessary tasks to securely lock out a machine. Especially for new employees who are unfamiliar with the equipment, step-by-step directions will help eliminate confusion, increase the chance of success, and typically, reduce or eliminate errors related to employees who are confused about what the next step should be.

To maintain the usefulness of a lockout station requires time and effort. To be effective in maintaining the lockout station, regularly inspect the lockout station for the presence of sufficient quantities of required lockout devices and equipment (such as locks, tags, and so on) to secure all machines that could potentially be locked out, and to ensure that all of the lockout safety devices are functioning and clean. Provide education and training on how to properly use the lock-out equipment and how to securely lock out a machine to every employee who will use a lock-out station.

A lock-out station does not only contain locks, tags, and other devices for securing machines; it also represents a commitment to a safe workplace. A lock-out station conveys to employees and to all employees working in the vicinity of a lock-out station that the employer is committed to providing a safe workplace. A lock-out station may encourage employees to take smaller steps to contribute to a safe workplace. Being prepared for possible face-value injuries (in the event of an accident) will reduce the number of employees that suffer from serious injuries (due to carelessness) from tomorrow. Every employee on every job needs to work in a safe manner!