What must employers do if energy control measures are ineffective?

When energy control measures are determined to be ineffective, implementing a lockout/tagout program becomes essential as a critical safety practice. The lockout/tagout (LOTO) program ensures that hazardous energy sources are properly isolated and rendered inoperative to prevent unintentional release or unexpected energization during maintenance or servicing activities.

Lockout/tagout procedures involve placing locks or tags on energy isolating devices to inform personnel that the equipment cannot be operated until it is safe. This proactive approach mitigates the risk of accidents, injuries, or fatalities that may arise from equipment malfunction or accidental start-up.

The other choices are not appropriate immediate actions if energy control measures do not work. While notifying management or discontinuing the use of machinery might be appropriate in certain situations, they do not address the fundamental need to control hazardous energy sources effectively. Using alternative energy sources does not resolve the issues related to energy control and might introduce additional risks if not handled properly. Thus, establishing a LOTO program is the proactive, standard procedure to maintain safety and compliance in such cases.