Working on energized equipment

It may be necessary to energize equipment to perform tests or reposition parts during servicing. The procedures for the testing or positioning of machines, equipment, or components in situations where lockout/tagout devices must be temporarily removed must follow this specific sequence:
- Clear the machine of tools and materials and remove all employees in the danger area.
- Have the authorized employee remove the lockout/tagout devices.
- Energize the equipment for the test.
- Test the equipment.
- De-energize the equipment after testing and reapply the lockout/tagout devices.
OSHA allows the temporary removal of lockout or tagout devices and the re-energization of the machine or equipment ONLY during the limited time necessary for the testing or positioning of machines, equipment, or components. Note that OSHA does not specifically require the reinstallation of machine guards during these procedures, but it is very important for employees to be safely positioned while the machine or equipment is energized. After the completion of the temporary re-energization, the authorized employees shall again de-energize the equipment and resume lockout/tagout procedures.