ISOLATION AND TAGGING

PROCEDURE
 Isolation and Tagging Procedure

DOCUMENT CONTROL

Version Description Reviewed by Approved by Revision Issue Date

Number Date

Minor formatting and corrections

throughout document following on
6 D Graham D Graham 31/10/2019 31/10/2019
from Southern Ports group meeting
– March 2019

Minor formatting and corrections

5 A. Niesler D.Graham 09/11/2018 12/11/2018
Additional detail Sections 6 & 7

D. Graham
4 Revision for Southern Ports 31/07/2018 31/07/2018
Review Group

D. Graham
3 Full Revision A. Byers 05/08/2016 05/08/2016
Review Group

G. Solly
2 Final - Complete M. Cole A. Byers 15/04/2016 15/04/2016
H.S.R’s

G. Solly
1 DRAFT Procedure M. Cole A. Byers 30/03/2016 30/03/2016
H.S.R’s

DETAILS OF CURRENT REVISION CHANGES

Old Section New Section Details of Change

Section 4 & 5 Section 4 & 5 Inclusion of Visiting Lock Holder, update to isolation matrix

Sections 6 & 7 Sections 6 & 7 Update to detail the removal of Red Personal Locks and PDT prior to leaving site

All sections All sections Completed revision of document – Completed, August 2016

All sections All sections Completed revision of document for integration into Southern Ports - July 2018

Document Users ALL EMPLOYEES

Responsible Person SAFETY & SECURITY MANAGER

Revision Trigger 2 YEARLY

Document Owner: Safety & Security Manager Version No: 06 Issue Date: 30/10/2019
Approved by: GM HSES Reference: Record No: D16/695
UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED Page 2 of 20
 Isolation and Tagging Procedure

TABLE OF CONTENTS
DOCUMENT CONTROL .............................................................................................. 2
IMPORTANT SUMMARY POINTS ............................................................................... 4
1. PURPOSE ...................................................................................................... 5
2. SCOPE........................................................................................................... 5
3. ENERGY SOURCES ...................................................................................... 5
4. ISOLATOR GRADING .................................................................................... 5
4.1. Visiting Lock Holder (Less than 1 shift in duration) ......................................... 5
4.2. Lock Holder .................................................................................................... 6
4.3. Individual Isolator............................................................................................ 6
4.4. Group Isolator................................................................................................. 6
5. ISOLATION MATRIX ...................................................................................... 7
6. LOCK AND TAG TABLE................................................................................. 8
7. ISOLATION TYPES...................................................................................... 10
7.1. Individual Isolation ........................................................................................ 11
7.1.1. Heavy Vehicles and Surface Mobile Equipment ........................................... 11
7.1.2. Light Vehicles ............................................................................................... 11
7.1.3. Marine Vessels ............................................................................................. 11
7.2. Group Isolations ........................................................................................... 12
7.2.1. Removal of another person’s Red Personal Locks / Personal Danger Tags . 13
7.3. Lock Box ...................................................................................................... 13
7.3.1. Conducting a Lock Box Isolation................................................................... 13
7.3.2. Confirmation Check of Isolations .................................................................. 14
7.3.3. Red Personal Lock and PDT on a Lock Box ................................................. 14
7.3.4. Field Checks................................................................................................. 15
7.3.5. Change of Shift Requirements for a Lock Box .............................................. 15
7.3.6. Close Out of a Lock Box and Isolation Confirmation Permit .......................... 15
7.3.7. Changes to a Lock Box................................................................................. 15
7.4. Commissioning Phase (Testing / Control) ..................................................... 16
7.4.1. Confirmation of the Commissioning Phase ................................................... 16
7.4.2. Commissioning Phase Requirements ........................................................... 16
7.4.3. Completion of the Commissioning Phase ..................................................... 17
8. DEFINITIONS ............................................................................................... 17
9. RESPONSIBILITIES ..................................................................................... 19
10. REFERENCES ............................................................................................. 20
10.1. External ........................................................................................................ 20
10.2. Internal ......................................................................................................... 20

Document Owner: Safety & Security Manager Version No: 06 Issue Date: 30/10/2019
Approved by: GM HSES Reference: Record No: D16/695
UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED Page 3 of 20
 Isolation and Tagging Procedure

IMPORTANT SUMMARY POINTS

The Out of Service Tag is placed on plant or equipment which is faulty, or an isolation point
where maintenance work is incomplete and when there is a risk to equipment if it is started or
operated.
A Lock Holder is not permitted to do their own isolation; they shall only apply their Red
Personal Lock and PDT onto a confirmed Group Isolation, Lock Box or Locking Device which
has been isolated by a Group Isolator.
An Individual Isolator may NOT apply Group Isolations or isolate for others including Lock
Holders, they can only isolate equipment / plant that they are going to personally work on.
Group Isolators are authorised to isolate plant and equipment for Lock Holders and Individual
Isolators, to protect a group of people at a single point of personal locking (Locking Device or
Lock Box) for multiple location isolations.
Red Personal Locks and Personal Danger Tags (PDT) are there for your own protection and
the key must be kept under your control at all times.
Equipment / plant shall be isolated at the main (primary) isolation point, for example the
MCC, mobile equipment main isolation switch, service feed line valve or tap.
You are the only person authorised to place or remove your Red Personal Locks and PDTs.
Red Personal Locks shall not be used for any other purposes other than isolating to form part
of an established safe system of work for an individual.
Any member of the work group can request verification of the isolation at any point during the
task.
A test / try for confirmation of a zero energy state of the plant / equipment must be performed
and is considered a key step in confirming a zero energy state, or the control of
mechanical or potential stored energy.
When there are more than six (6) Red Personal Locks on an isolation device, or when there
is a requirement to lock onto more than six (6) single point isolations, then a Lock Box -
Group Isolation shall apply;
Lock Holders and Individual Isolators working under a Lock Box shall be witnessed by the
nominated Group Isolator 1 and be checked that they understand what is being isolated when
applying their Red Personal Lock and PDT onto the Lock Box.
Isolations shall also be applied prior to cleaning / clearing and working on fixed plant,
equipment or systems and all possible energy sources that have the potential to cause injury,
damage or uncontrolled release of energy, examples of which includes but is not limited to:
o The removal of guards, opening doors for clearing hang ups / cleaning material from
under a conveyor and clearing a metal detection.
A conveyor pull wire / lanyard is the vertical boundary. Should you or a part of your body or
tool / equipment be required beyond this point to conduct a task, isolation at the MCC shall
be required.
Your Red Personal Locks, PDT must be removed:
o on the completion of the job,
o on completion of your component of work,
o at the end of the shift.
o before you leave site;

Document Owner: Safety & Security Manager Version No: 06 Issue Date: 30/10/2019
Approved by: GM HSES Reference: Record No: D16/695
UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED Page 4 of 20
 Isolation and Tagging Procedure

1. PURPOSE
This procedure documents the process for conducting isolation, lockout and tagging processes to
provide a safe system of work to protect persons from potential hazards associated with
uncontrolled energy release. The Isolation, Lock Out and Tagging processes include the use of a
Red Personal Lock, Personal Danger Tags, Isolation Tags, Isolation Devices and Lock Boxes at
Southern Ports.
2. SCOPE
This procedure shall be used for all isolation, lock out and tagging activities conducted by
Southern Ports employees, contractors, port users and visitors.
Requirements for the isolation and switching of High Voltage electrical devices are NOT covered
under this procedure. Refer to the SP procedure High Voltage Electrical Isolation and Access
D15/1901.
3. ENERGY SOURCES
Energy may consist of many sources that have the potential to drive, move, activate or energise
any plant, equipment or system. These energy sources include but are not limited to:

Energy Source Examples

Fluid Liquids, steam, hydraulics, water

Gas Pressurised gases, compressed air, vacuum

Mechanical Mechanical couplings, gearing, linkages, drive shafts, springs, conveyors, rail

Chemical Volatile chemicals, radiation, fuels

Electrical  Extra Low Voltage (50AC to 120 DC ripple free)

 Low voltage (exceeding extra low voltage but not exceeding 1,000
Va.c. or 1500 Vd.c. or less) electrical power,
 High Voltage exceeding low voltage.

Gravitational Gravity take up towers (GTUs) / counterweights, telescopic chutes,

suspended loads, clearing hang-ups

Stored Ship mooring lines, accumulators, springs, inflating tyres, pressure vessels

Prior to repairing, maintaining, clearing metal detects, adjusting or cleaning of plant, equipment or
systems, all possible energy sources that have the potential to cause injury, damage or
uncontrolled release are to be assessed and isolated using the most effective method possible to
achieve a zero energy state.
Note: A conveyor pull wire / lanyard is the vertical boundary. Should you or a part of your body or
tool / equipment be required beyond this point to conduct a task, an isolation at the MCC shall be
required.
4. ISOLATOR GRADING
4.1. Visiting Lock Holder (Less than 1 shift in duration)
A person/s who will be under the direct supervision of a Southern Ports permanent employee,
contractor or port user, who holds the competency of a Group Isolator. This person/s will be
instructed on the requirements of applying a Red Personal Lock and Personal Danger Tag (PDT)
in compliance with the Southern Ports Isolation and Tagging Procedure.

Document Owner: Safety & Security Manager Version No: 06 Issue Date: 30/10/2019
Approved by: GM HSES Reference: Record No: D16/695
UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED Page 5 of 20
 Isolation and Tagging Procedure

A Visiting Lock Holder will generally be a short term contractor, port user, customer, vendor or
consultant, who may be required to perform a task / work at a Southern Ports site that requires
an isolation or isolations.
Visiting Lock Holders will be issued with the required number of Red Personal Locks consistent
with the requirements of this procedure as stated in Section 6.
A Visiting Lock Holder is NOT PERMITTED to do their own isolation; they shall only apply their
Red Personal Lock and PDT onto a confirmed Group Isolation, Lock Box or Locking Device
which has been isolated by a current competent Group Isolator.
4.2. Lock Holder
A person who has received basic training and has been deemed as “competent” in applying their
Red Personal Lock and Personal Danger Tag (PDT).
A Lock Holder will generally be a SP employee, permanent contractor, port user, customer,
vendor, consultant, apprentice or trainee who may be performing work at a Southern Ports site
that requires an isolation or isolations.
A Lock Holder is not permitted to do their own isolation; they shall only apply their Red Personal
Lock and PDT onto a confirmed Group Isolation, Lock Box or Locking Device (Hasp) which has
been isolated by a Group Isolator.
Note: An apprentice in their final trade year may be permitted to isolate, but shall do so only
when under direct supervision by a Responsible Person who is an appointed Group Isolator, who
will also sign onto the Orange Isolation Tag stating that the isolation was conducted under their
supervision.
4.3. Individual Isolator
A person who has operational experience in the area they are working in and has received
training and been deemed as competent in applying individual isolations, including the
application of securing their Red Personal Lock and PDT, in accordance with the approved
assessment criteria, onto an isolation point or an approved “Locking Device”.
An Individual Isolator may NOT apply Group Isolations or isolate for others, they can only isolate
equipment / plant that they are going to personally work on.
A maximum of six (6) individual Isolators may lock onto a lock out device (Hasp), or when
isolating up to six (6) single point isolations.
4.4. Group Isolator
A Group Isolator shall have first qualified as an Individual Isolator, have significant experience
with the Southern Ports Isolation and Tagging Procedure and relevant Southern Ports plant /
equipment within their discipline. They will have undertaken the required training, been assessed
and deemed as competent in applying Group Isolations and will be appointed by the appropriate
Southern Ports Regional Manager (Registered Manager or their delegate).
Group Isolators are authorised to isolate plant and equipment for Lock Holders and Individual
Isolators, to protect a group of people at a single point of personal locking (Locking Device or
Lock Box) for multiple location isolations.
A Group Isolator shall be required when there is a need to have greater than six (6) individuals
on any one (1) isolation point or where there is a requirement to isolate more than six (6) single
point isolations.
For Lock Box isolation’s, a minimum of two (2) people (both must be competent Group Isolators)
are required to implement a group isolation. One person shall be nominated as “Group Isolator
1”, who will conduct the isolations and the other as “Group Isolator 2”, who will conduct the
confirmation checks for each of the isolations.

Document Owner: Safety & Security Manager Version No: 06 Issue Date: 30/10/2019
Approved by: GM HSES Reference: Record No: D16/695
UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED Page 6 of 20
 Isolation and Tagging Procedure

5. ISOLATION MATRIX

Type of Competency

Group Individual Lock

Isolator Isolator Holder
  
Isolates for Others Isolates for Self Can Not Isolate

Individual
Isolation 
Each Isolated Point

Group

Type of Isolation

Isolation
Each Isolated Point Each Isolated Point Each Isolated Point

Each Isolated Point

Lock Box 

The Lock Box The Lock Box The Lock Box

NOTE:

Lock Holder: (Red Personal Lock & PDT) – cannot isolate, requires a Group Isolator (Orange Lock & tag) to do the isolation

Individual Isolator: (Red Lock & PDT) – Can only isolate for themselves and only up to 6 isolation points.

Group Isolator:
(Orange Lock & tags) isolates up to 6 isolation points for Lock Holders (Red Personal Lock & PDT) or;
(Blue Locks & Orange tags) for Lock Box isolation points when greater than 6 isolation points, for Individual Isolators and
Lock Holders who lock onto the Lock box (Red Personal Lock & PDT).

Document Owner: Safety & Security Manager Version No: 06 Issue Date: 30/10/2019
Approved by: GM HSES Reference: Record No: D16/695
UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED Page 7 of 20
 Isolation and Tagging Procedure

6. LOCK AND TAG TABLE

Tag / Hardware Use

Information Tag This tag may be used to identify and label components such
as, hydraulic lines, electrical wiring, air and water lines
during maintenance or installation, on Caution or Danger
tape or barricading to explain the reason for the barricade
or tape and the name of the contact person.
The tag must be printed legibly and clearly visible with the
required details at all times.
You must destroy the information tag after removal.

A tag which is white with blue writing that is

used to display written general information
about an item or situation and may also be
used to convey equipment status that may
not warrant a Yellow Out of Service Tag.
Out of Service Tag (OOS) The OOS Tag indicates that equipment may be faulty, in
need of repair or inspection and that damage may occur if
the equipment is utilised. It may be placed on an isolation
point where maintenance work is incomplete and when
there is a risk to equipment if it is started or operated prior
to it being repaired or disposed of.
This tag may be placed by anyone, but can only be removed
by a Competent Person (person assigned to repair / assess
item). An OOS Tag does not provide personal protection.
The tag must be printed legibly and clearly visible with the
A yellow and black notification tag informing required details at all times.
that the equipment item shall not be used You must destroy the OOS tag after removal.
until cleared for safe operation by a
Competent Person.
Personal Danger Tag (PDT) A PDT is used by a single person in conjunction with a Red
Personal Lock.
The purpose of the PDT is to inform others that the person
named on the tag is working on a task that requires the
Isolation Point (to which the Tag is attached) to remain
isolated.
Each person must attach their own Red Personal Lock and
PDT. The Red Personal Lock and PDT is only placed and
removed by the person whose name appears on the PDT.
The PDT shall be scribed with the full name of the person,
phone contact, be dated, have the required details of the
A red and white tag used to identify and isolation and be secured to your Red Personal Lock.
protect an individual that is working or Each person must remove their own Red Personal Lock and
cleaning an isolated piece of equipment PDT on the completion of the job, or completion of their
when used in conjunction with a Red component of the work, and at the end of the shift before
Personal Lock and an effective isolation they leave site.
device.

Document Owner: Safety & Security Manager Version No: 06 Issue Date: 30/10/2019
Approved by: GM HSES Reference: Record No: D16/695
UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED Page 8 of 20
 Isolation and Tagging Procedure

A disposable PDT shall be destroyed when the task / work

has been completed for the shift.

Red Personal Lock The Red Personal Lock and PDT is placed on de-energised
plant or equipment before a person begins a task and
whenever there is danger of personal injury from
unexpected operation, movement or release of energy from
plant or equipment.
Red Personal Locks and PDT must only be fixed to isolation
points once de-energised is in effect or to an effective
isolation device that has been applied and a zero energy
state exists.

A Red Personal Lock used in conjunction

with a Personal Danger Tag (PDT) to Locks and keys shall NOT be swapped between personnel
protect an individual that is working or including the duplication of keys.
cleaning an isolated piece of equipment. A person’s Red Personal Lock and PDT must be removed
(Lockwood 312ED38/E1RD/KA6 Red on the completion of the job, on completion of their
Personal Locks) component of the work, at the end of the shift, before they
leave site.
Isolation Device (example) An Isolation device is typically manufactured with two
opposing plates and clip hooks, or one dual plate with a clip
hook, with holes in the plate for the attachment of Red
Personal Locks or an Orange Isolation Lock.
It is attached to an isolation point by an Individual Isolator
prior to them applying their own Red Personal Lock and
PDT. Or by a Group Isolator prior to the placement of an
Orange Confirmation Tag and Orange Isolation Lock, or
Blue Lock Box Locks where there may be a number of
active Lock Boxes sharing a common isolation.
Shall not be placed on an Isolation Lock Box.
Orange Isolation Tag & Orange Isolation The Orange Isolation Tag is placed by a Group Isolator onto
Lock an Orange Isolation Lock at the point(s) of isolation where
a Lock Out Device is used and on an Isolation Locking
Device or a Lock Box(s) when used to verify that the
isolation has been undertaken and a zero energy state
exists or the energy state for mechanical or potential stored
energy sources is controlled, for third parties to work on.
It indicates to all individuals, who did not personally perform
the isolation, that energy has been released or controlled
and the isolation has been completed and confirmed.
Orange Isolation Tags and Locks shall only be applied by
authorised competent Group Isolators.
NOTE: Where equipment / plant cannot be returned to
service an Out of Service Tag maybe attached to Orange
Isolation Tag and Orange Isolation Lock to provide
additional protection and remain attached to the isolation
point.

Document Owner: Safety & Security Manager Version No: 06 Issue Date: 30/10/2019
Approved by: GM HSES Reference: Record No: D16/695
UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED Page 9 of 20
 Isolation and Tagging Procedure

Blue Lock Box Locks Generally consisting of ten (10) Blue Lock Box Locks which
are applied in conjunction with Orange Isolation Tags by the
Group Isolator to the isolation point(s) as listed on the
Isolation Confirmation Permit D16/442, Section “Switching
Procedure” for the purposes of a multiple point / Lock Box
isolation.
Blue Locks shall only be applied by competent Group
Isolators and used in a Lock Box type Isolation.
Isolation Confirmation Permit (D16/442) This form is used by a Group Isolator to record the details
of the isolations and is used to verify that isolations have
been performed correctly by another Group Isolator. The
Isolation Confirmation Permit shall be secured in the “Lock
Box”. This documents the isolations and de-isolation
processes.
Lock Box Sign On Sign Off Form This form is used in conjunction with the Isolation
(D16/442) Confirmation Permit, where personnel sign onto, and off
when working under the protection of a Lock Box. This
documents the isolations, handover and the sign on / sign
off processes.
Blue Commissioning & Test Tag This tag is applied in conjunction with an approved
Commissioning / Test Control Sheet (D16/7720) and is
administered by a Group Isolator to indicate fault finding,
equipment / plant being tested, calibration or undergoing a
commissioning phase.
The Blue Commissioning & Test Tag can be attached to
barricading preventing access to an area and isolation
points or equipment by a competent Group Isolator.

7. ISOLATION TYPES
To establish a safe system of work, isolations shall be managed by the means of Individual or
Group Isolations which will be determined by the Responsible Person. This shall apply to fixed or
mobile plant and equipment that requires, but not limited to:
 Cleaning or for clearing purposes;
 Items that have been taken out of service for repairs and or maintenance;
 Periodic and planned maintenance; or
 For new installations.
Individual or Group Isolation shall follow the below principle process:
 Shutdown (Switch / shut off energy source);
 Isolate (Removal of all energy sources and / or prevention of energy release);
 Isolation Device (i.e. Locking Device or Lock Box);
 Lock out / Tag out (Correct Lock and Tag); and
 Test (Test / try - verify a zero energy state).

Document Owner: Safety & Security Manager Version No: 06 Issue Date: 30/10/2019
Approved by: GM HSES Reference: Record No: D16/695
UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED Page 10 of 20
 Isolation and Tagging Procedure

7.1. Individual Isolation

The following points identify the minimum isolation requirements for an Authorised Individual
Isolation:
1. Identify all energy sources and hazards by conducting a Risk Assessment.
2. Shutdown of the plant / equipment / service.
3. Control other potential hazards in the area.
4. Isolate and Lock out all energy sources.
5. Release / secure any stored energy:
 Where there is potential for plant to hold mechanical or stored energy a mechanical
locking device suitably designed to control stored energy must be fitted prior to attaching
a Red Personal Lock and PDT. For example conveyors, chute diverters, positioners, belt
clamps, gravity take up towers (GTUs) / counterweight, fluid lines;
 Attempt to operate the plant / equipment, start controls (Test);
 Test the equipment or process by using appropriate test equipment and / or visual
inspection (ensure valves are clear / closed, lines have been drained);
 See Section 7.3.2 Confirmation Check of Isolations for more detail. (Test 1 to 3)
6. Isolate and Lock out – each person working on the plant / equipment must apply their own
Red Personal Lock with their own Personal Danger Tag (PDT) to each isolation point (Lock
out / Tag out).
7. Once work is completed, each individual working on the plant / equipment shall remove their
own Red Personal Lock and PDT from each isolation point before the plant is returned to
operational status.
8. Inform the Responsible Person, that all isolations have been removed and that the equipment
/ plant has been returned to operational status; and
9. If work remains incomplete at the end of shift, Red Personal Locks / PDT shall be removed
and an Out of Service (OOS) tag(s) shall be placed on the equipment to indicate its service
status.
7.1.1. Heavy Vehicles and Surface Mobile Equipment
When performing maintenance activities for all Heavy Vehicles and Surface Mobile Equipment,
the equipment shall be isolated.
Persons holding an Individual or Group Isolator status shall isolate Heavy Vehicles and Surface
Mobile Equipment at the main battery isolator with an approved isolation device along with the
required Red Personal Locks and Personal Danger tags.
7.1.2. Light Vehicles
When performing maintenance activities on light vehicles, as a minimum the isolation shall
consist of a battery terminal separation via a lock out device, Red Personal Lock and a
completed Personal Danger Tag.
7.1.3. Marine Vessels
When performing maintenance activities where there is the potential for entanglement or
unplanned energisation, persons holding an Individual or Group Isolator status shall isolate the
vessel at the battery isolator where fitted or use a battery terminal separation via an approved
isolation device with a Red Personal Lock and a Personal Danger Tag.

Document Owner: Safety & Security Manager Version No: 06 Issue Date: 30/10/2019
Approved by: GM HSES Reference: Record No: D16/695
UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED Page 11 of 20
 Isolation and Tagging Procedure

7.2. Group Isolations

The following steps identify the minimum isolation requirements for a Group Isolation:
1. Identify all energy sources and hazards by conducting a Risk Assessment.
2. Shut the plant down (planned) / plant has shut down unexpectedly (unplanned).
3. The Responsible Person shall inform the affected personnel – both internal and external.
4. Control other potential hazards in the area.
5. Isolate and Lock out all energy sources.
6. Release and secure any stored energy:
 Where there is potential for plant to hold mechanical or stored energy, a mechanical
locking device suitably designed to control stored energy must be fitted prior to attaching
an Orange Lock / Blue Lock Box Lock and Orange Isolation Tag. For example
conveyors, chute diverters, gravity take up towers (GTUs) / counterweights, positioners
and belt clamps.
 Attempt to operate the plant / equipment start controls (Test).
 Test the equipment or process by using appropriate test equipment and / or visual
inspection (ensure valves are clear / closed, lines have been drained).
 See Section 7.3.2 Confirmation Check of Isolations for more detail. (Test 1 to 3)
7. Each person working on the equipment / plant must apply their Red Personal Lock complete
with their PDT to the designated Isolation Point which would be either an Isolation device or a
Lock Box.
8. The Lock Box is where the key from the Blue Lock Box locks are secured within, along with
all unused Blue Lock Box Locks that are not used in the isolation, by an Orange Isolation
Lock and Orange Isolation Tag. A completed Isolation Confirmation Permit (D16/442) which
shall list all the required isolations and shall also be placed in the Lock Box to clearly identify
which isolations have been applied. A Lock Box Sign On/Sign Off form shall also be attached
to the front of the Lock Box.
9. Where the Group Isolators who performed the isolations are required to work on the plant /
equipment, they will also be required to apply their own Red Personal Lock and PDT to
Isolation device or the Lock Box;
10. Once work is completed, each person working on the plant / equipment shall remove their
own Red Personal Lock and PDT from the designated Isolation Point;
11. The Group Isolators (1 & 2) shall then remove the Orange Isolation Lock and Tag, take the
Blue Lock Box Locks key from inside the Lock Box and remove the isolations per the
Isolation Conformation Form requirements “Restoration”, before the plant is returned to
operational status; and
12. The Group Isolators (1 & 2) shall then inform the Responsible Person that all isolation(s)
have been removed and equipment / plant has been returned to operational status.
13. If work remains incomplete at the end of shift, Red Personal Locks / PDT shall be removed
and an Out of Service (OOS) tag(s) shall be placed on the equipment to indicate its service
status which can be attached to the Orange Isolation Tag and Orange Isolation Lock to
provide additional protection.

Document Owner: Safety & Security Manager Version No: 06 Issue Date: 30/10/2019
Approved by: GM HSES Reference: Record No: D16/695
UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED Page 12 of 20
 Isolation and Tagging Procedure

7.2.1. Removal of another person’s Red Personal Locks / Personal Danger Tags
A Red Personal Lock and Personal Danger Tag (PDT) Removal Form D16/983 must be
completed and approved before any action is taken to remove another person's Red Personal
Lock and PDT, or before cutting any lock associated with the isolation system. This will apply to:
 Where an individual cannot return to site to remove their own Red Personal Lock and PDT.
 Where a key cannot be used to open any lock used as part of the isolation process, (including
Red Personal Lock, Orange Isolation Lock or Blue Lock Box Locks). This includes the
removal of a Red Personal Lock by the owner (you may NOT cut your own lock off without
approval from the Registered Manger or their delegate).
If another person’s PDT is accidentally removed, the following procedure shall apply:
 A replacement PDT is to be completed with the replacing person’s details on the tag and
reaffixed to the isolation point. It shall be clearly marked as a REPLACEMENT;
 The relevant supervisor is to be notified immediately;
 The person whose PDT was removed by mistake must be located and asked to complete
another PDT; and
 Only then is the replacement PDT to be removed.
7.3. Lock Box
A uniquely labelled red box that is lockable with a transparent lid and which generally contains
ten (10) Blue Lock Box locks and key, and stores paperwork for group isolations.
The Lock box is used for multiple isolations in shutdowns or during plant and equipment
overhauls and can also be used for commissioning purposes.
The Lock Box is designed to provide a ‘Safe System of Work’ for situations where many persons
are working on a task, or a task which has many isolation points.
7.3.1. Conducting a Lock Box Isolation
A Blue Lock Box Lock and the Orange Isolation Tag must be attached to each of the nominated
isolation points as per the Isolation Confirmation Permit D16/442 Section Switching Procedure by
two Group Isolators simultaneously where one will be nominated as Group Isolator 1 and the
other as Group Isolator 2.
Group Isolator 1 must sign the “Group Isolator 1” column on the Isolation Confirmation Permit
D16/442 as each of the nominated isolations is completed.
Group Isolator 2 must verify each of the nominated isolations by the means of reviewing that the
isolations have been completed and confirmed against the Isolation Confirmation Permit
D16/442, Section “Switching Procedure” that the plant / equipment is now at a zero energy state
by signing in the “Group Isolator 2” column.
The Isolation Confirmation Permit D16/442 shall then be placed in the Lock Box and be placed
so that it is completely visible at all times. The key to the Blue Lock Box Locks must also be kept
inside the Lock Box. This permit defines all the isolation points contained within the Lock Box
and is used as critical references for any person using the Lock Box as the isolation point.
Group Isolator 1 must then lock the Lock Box by placing an Orange Isolation Lock and an
Orange Isolation Tag without a Locking Device onto the Lock Box confirming that all isolations
contained within the Lockbox have been confirmed and witnessed.
Group Isolator 1 will then complete a Lock Box Sign on Sign off form D16/442 and attach it to the
Lock Box. All personnel working under the Lock Box isolation process shall sign onto the form,
under the witness of Group Isolator 1, before proceeding into the work area.

Document Owner: Safety & Security Manager Version No: 06 Issue Date: 30/10/2019
Approved by: GM HSES Reference: Record No: D16/695
UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED Page 13 of 20
 Isolation and Tagging Procedure

On completion of their works or at the end of their shift, before they leave site, personnel working
under the Lock Box isolation shall sign off on the form Lock Box Sign on Sign form, D16/442
once they have removed their Red Personal Lock and PDT.
7.3.2. Confirmation Check of Isolations
A test / try for confirmation of a zero energy state of the plant / equipment must be performed and
is considered a key step in confirming a zero energy state or control of mechanical or potential
stored energy.
The Group Isolator, shall perform either one or a combination of the following tests in order to
determine if all energy associated with that isolation has been released or secured:
TEST 1 - Check if there is a visual indication that the equipment has been de-energised (e.g.
physical separation of the isolator or plug and socket). If there is a positive visual indication
conduct the following:
 Individual Isolators – Place your Red Personal Lock and PDT.
 Group Isolators – Complete an Orange Isolation Tag & Lock to the isolation point.
If there is no visual indication of de-energisation, perform Test 2.
TEST 2 - Check the phase lights or appropriate instrumentation. All phase lights must be
observed to go from On to Off – if a light has failed, this check must not be used until all lights
are operational. Where instrumentation is used as an isolation test, it must provide a confirmation
that energy has been released and there is no residual energy in the system being de-energised.
If the test provides adequate confirmation that there is no residual energy, conduct the following:
 Individual Isolators – Place your Red Personal Lock and PDT.
 Group Isolators – Complete an Orange Isolation Tag & Lock to the isolation point
If there is no positive indication of de-energisation, perform Test 3.
TEST 3 - Where Test 1 and 2 do not provide adequate confirmation of isolation, the appropriate
energy source must be physically measured and appropriately drained of residual energy, for
example, voltage or pressure measurements. It is the responsibility of the person performing the
de-energisation to ensure that energy has been released or drained appropriately prior to the
following being conducted:
 Individual Isolators – Placement of your Red Personal Lock and PDT.
 Group Isolators – Completing an Orange Isolation Tag & Lock to the isolation point.
Where bleeding of valves, hydraulic lines are required; the appropriate process must be followed
prior to the placement of the Orange Isolation Tag and Lock.
Where there is potential for plant to hold mechanical or stored energy a mechanical locking
device suitably designed to control stored energy must be fitted prior to the placement of the
Orange Isolation Tag and Lock. For example conveyors, chute diverters, positioners, belt
clamps, gravity take up towers (GTUs) / counterweight, fluid lines
Where plant / equipment consists of multiple systems which may store energy, only the energy
sources that have been isolated and confirmed will be documented on the Isolation Confirmation
Permit D16/442.
7.3.3. Red Personal Lock and PDT on a Lock Box
Any person working under the protection of the Lock Box must ensure that all plant and
equipment requiring isolation for their task is listed on the Isolation Confirmation Permit D16/442
Section Switching Procedure and that all isolations have been signed by the Group Isolators 1 &
2 before attaching their Red Personal Lock and PDT.

Document Owner: Safety & Security Manager Version No: 06 Issue Date: 30/10/2019
Approved by: GM HSES Reference: Record No: D16/695
UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED Page 14 of 20
 Isolation and Tagging Procedure

The Group Isolator 1 shall witness all persons applying their Red Personal Lock and PDT onto
the Lock Box and check that they understand what has been isolated.
Each person in the workgroup must fix their Red Personal Lock and PDT onto the Lock Box
which is considered as the Isolation point. Red Personal Locks and PDT must only be fixed to
isolation points that have an Orange Confirmation Tag and Lock attached.
A Lock Box must not be used when a Group Isolator is not available on site.
7.3.4. Field Checks
Prior to starting a task, each person in the workgroup must walk the task and verify that the
Isolation Points where they have placed their Red Personal Lock and PDT match the Isolation
List and the plant or equipment labelling.
The required work tasks can then commence on the isolated equipment by each individual of the
work group who have placed their Red Personal Lock and PDT on the required Lock Box.
7.3.5. Change of Shift Requirements for a Lock Box
Where the Lock Box is to be used on the next shift, the Group Isolator 1 must sign over the Lock
Box key to the incoming Group Isolator 1 on the Lock Box Sign On Sign Off form Section “Sign
Over Details”.
The incoming Group Isolator 1 must verify the isolated points against the Isolation Confirmation
Permit D16/442, that the Orange Isolation Lock and an Orange Isolation Tag is attached to the
Lock Box and that the permit is correctly filled out and attached.
If there is no Group Isolator 1 available, the Lock Box must not be used and the Isolation
Confirmation Permit D16/442 must be cancelled.
At the completion of the task, or at a shift change, the workgroup must remove their Red
Personal Lock and PDT without disturbing any other Red Personal Locks and PDTs that may still
be attached to the Lock Box.
7.3.6. Close Out of a Lock Box and Isolation Confirmation Permit
When all the Red Personal Locks and PDT are removed from the Lock Box, and all persons have
signed off their tasks as complete, the Lock Box can be closed out.
The Group Isolator 1 may then open the Lock Box and along with the Group Isolator 2 must then
manage the removal of all the Blue Lock Box Locks and Orange Isolation Tags from the
individual isolation points in ready to de-isolate the plant / equipment.
On completion of the above the Group Isolator 1 and 2 must then sign the Isolation Confirmation
Permit D16/442 to cancel the Lockbox Section Cancelation of Permit and advise the Area
Supervisor that the plant or equipment is ready to be re-energised.
7.3.7. Changes to a Lock Box
When an isolation point within an established Lock Box requires energising and de-energising
due to scheduled maintenance / shutdown phase the following actions must be taken:
 The Lock Box can be opened after all Red Personal Locks and PDT have been removed,
 The Lock Box can only be reinstated when the isolation point(s) have been de-energised,
confirmed and the Lock Box Lock and Tag have been reattached by the same Group Isolator
1 and Group Isolator 2 who removed the original isolation.
 A record of this change must be made on the Isolation Confirmation Permit D16/442. This
shall be achieved by initialling the respective isolation(s) in Section, Switching Procedure list
identifying that the isolation(s) have been restored and verified.

Document Owner: Safety & Security Manager Version No: 06 Issue Date: 30/10/2019
Approved by: GM HSES Reference: Record No: D16/695
UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED Page 15 of 20
 Isolation and Tagging Procedure

 Group Isolator 1 must then relock the Lock Box by placing an Orange Isolation Lock and an
Orange Isolation Tag without a Locking Device onto the Lock Box confirming that all
isolations contained within the Lockbox have been reconfirmed and witnessed.
The Lock Box is now active again without any need to change Lockbox numbers.
If any isolation points are removed or new isolation points are added the Lock Box must be
cancelled and a new Isolation Confirmation Permit must be raised.
7.4. Commissioning Phase (Testing / Control)
Is used to administratively manage the risk associated with all fixed or mobile equipment that
cannot be fully isolated to achieve a zero energy state, during either a testing, fault finding,
calibrating or commissioning phase where there is a need to control the number of persons in an
area due to the potential for uncontrolled energy releases.
The Group Isolator is the only person who can place a Blue Commissioning & Test Tag on plant,
equipment or an isolation point in conjunction with a Commissioning / Testing Control Sheet
D16/7720.
Unless authorised by the Group Isolator, only one task may be performed at a time on any plant,
equipment or isolation point(s) while under the Commissioning Phase.
The purpose of the Commissioning Phase is to:
 Restrict access to equipment / plant that is live and operating, while specialist tasks are being
conducted e.g. fault finding, equipment being tested, calibrated or commissioned;
 Provide restricted access to de-energised equipment to prevent others applying their Red
Personal Locks and PDT if not associated with a task; and
 Restrict access by other persons to areas where an energy source or hazard may not be
controlled inside the barricaded area.
NOTE: The Commissioning Phase must NOT be used to manage or control an energy
source where a Red Personal Lock and PDT will best control the operation of plant or
equipment. The Commissioning Phase alone does NOT provide personal protection; it
must be used in conjunction with a Risk Assessment and a Control Plan that details the
process that is to be undertaken.
7.4.1. Confirmation of the Commissioning Phase
The Group Isolator must determine if the energy sources are to be energised or de-energised
and enter the details of the nature of the tasks requiring the Commissioning Phase and their full
contact details onto the Commissioning / Testing Control Sheet D16/7720.
A Blue Commissioning & Test Tag must be attached to the plant / equipment in a secure manner.
If the energy source is to be de-energised, the Group isolator must ensure the isolations are
performed as per the requirements within this procedure.
If the energy source is not to be de-energised, the Group isolator must enter the details on the
Commissioning / Testing Control Sheet D16/7720 and place a Blue Commissioning & Test Tag
onto the isolation points and onto suitable established barricading restricting access to the area.
7.4.2. Commissioning Phase Requirements
In the event that equipment relevant to the Commissioning Phase requires energising, operating
and then de-energising again, or vice versa, the Group Isolator must check that the Risk
Assessment and Control Plan for the works and that the Commissioning / Testing Control Sheet
D16/7720, to ensure that risk controls are adequate and are still applicable to the intended
energise / de-energise phase for the area.

Document Owner: Safety & Security Manager Version No: 06 Issue Date: 30/10/2019
Approved by: GM HSES Reference: Record No: D16/695
UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED Page 16 of 20
 Isolation and Tagging Procedure

The Group Isolator must be contactable for the period of time that the Commissioning Phase is in
place. All persons associated with the task must work at all times under the instruction and
control of the Group Isolator.
Access to Commissioning areas is limited to those individuals signed on to the Commissioning /
Testing Control Sheet D16/7720.
Red Personal Locks and PDT must not be placed on an isolation point which has been placed
under a Commissioning Phase unless directed by the Group Isolator.
Individuals may leave and return to a controlled Commissioning Phase area while remaining
signed on, with the permission of the Group Isolator. All individuals must sign off on the
Commissioning / Testing Control Sheet D16/7720 at the end of each shift or at the end of their
assigned task.
Where a person is required to join the workgroup after the area is considered to be under a
Commissioning phase, that person must contact the Group Isolator and will need to review,
understand the Control Plan and sign on to the completed Risk Assessment (i.e. JHA) and they
must follow all the controls as per the Risk Assessment and sign on to the Commissioning /
Testing Control Sheet D16/7720.
7.4.3. Completion of the Commissioning Phase
At the end of the Commissioning Phase, the Group Isolator shall check that all members of the
workgroup are signed off from the Commissioning / Testing Control Sheet D16/7720 before
removing the Blue Commissioning & Test Tag(s) from the barricades and plant / equipment and
advise the Area Supervisor that the plant or equipment is ready for operation.
8. DEFINITIONS

Definition Meaning

Commissioning Phase Is not limited to commissioning, but may also include testing, fault finding,
Testing / Control bridging, calibrating and tracking.

Control Plan A document that establishes the standards, controls and guidelines that apply
to a workgroup when undertaking tasks in a Commissioning Phase. The detail
of the control plan will be determined by the complexity of the works asserted
by a risk assessment during the planning process. For example, a shutdown
where a group of people are working on different activities in the same work
area, the plan may be set out in the form of a Gantt Chart.

Employees Any person working for Southern Ports or under a contract of employment,
apprenticeship or other agreement thus including contractors, sub-contractors
and vendors.

Heavy Vehicles (HV) Trucks and buses that are designed for use on public roads such as, rigid and
articulated trucks greater than 4.5 tonnes (including associated trailers) and
buses (over 12 seats). Also included in this category but not limited to are
forklifts, backhoes, skid steer loaders, prime movers, mobile cranes and
integrated tool carriers fitted with an attachment not designed for earthmoving.

High Voltage As defined in AS3000 or Mine Safety and Inspection Act 1994 (WA). (Ref
D15/1901 High Voltage Isolation and Access Procedure.)

Document Owner: Safety & Security Manager Version No: 06 Issue Date: 30/10/2019
Approved by: GM HSES Reference: Record No: D16/695
UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED Page 17 of 20
 Isolation and Tagging Procedure

Definition Meaning

Isolate / Isolation Disconnect / barricade and lock / secure of all energy sources to achieve a
zero energy state to a piece of plant / equipment or system (associated with a
task).

Isolation Point Primary points on equipment / Plant used to remove potential stored energy,
for example Main isolation switch, plug or restraint point.

Light Vehicle (LV) Includes, but are not limited to - a motor vehicle that can be registered for use
on a public road under 4.5 tonnes gross vehicle mass (GVM).

Lockout Device A device that has the means to physically isolate hazardous energy sources
which includes but is not limited to a padlock, slip-plate, chain or other physical
devices to facilitate the fitment of a Locking Device for person(s) to lockout
energy source(s).

Responsible Person The person who has functional control of the workplace / area, for example
Terminal Supervisor, Maintenance Supervisor, Person in Charge.

Risk Assessment Can include but not limited to a Risk Assessment Workshop (RAW), Job
(RA) Hazard Analysis (JHA), Stop and Think or a combination of, for the purposes of
identifying hazards and the required controls to minimise risk to safety, health,
environment and community.

Safe System of Work Comprises of four elements (Planning, Equipment, Change and People) which
(SSOW) are interrelated / integrated and that are dependent upon each other to ensure
that a safe system is maintained at the workplace.

Shall Mandatory

Should Recommended

Surface Mobile Self-propelled mobile equipment for surface operations such as container
Equipment (SME) forklifts and equipment that is primarily intended for bulk earthmoving and not
primarily designed for use on public roads.

Document Owner: Safety & Security Manager Version No: 06 Issue Date: 30/10/2019
Approved by: GM HSES Reference: Record No: D16/695
UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED Page 18 of 20
 Isolation and Tagging Procedure

9. RESPONSIBILITIES

Role Responsibility

Regional Manager, Has the following obligation under this procedure;

Registered Manager,
 Implementation of its requirements.
Workplace Controller
 Ensure that a Risk Assessment process is undertaken.
 Provide adequate planning, training, safe equipment, competent
supervision, leadership and control for the activity.

Managers and Has the following obligation under this procedure;

Supervisors
 Facilitate and verify that a documented Safe System of Work (SSOW) is
established, which identifies associated hazards and controls to minimises
risk to health, safety and environment.
 Ensure that the required approved and authorised permit(s) where required
have been issued.
 Ensure that all team members fully understand their obligations of this
Isolation and Tagging Procedure D16/695.
 Ensure there is safe access / egress, approved serviceable plant,
equipment, tooling and hazardous substances.
 Verify that employees are competent to perform their duties by evidence of
training and / or assessment.
 Regularly monitor and assess the workplace for compliance.

Employees Has the following obligation under this procedure;

 Engage with the supervisor in the process of establishing a documented
Safe System of Work (SSOW) that minimises risk to health, safety and
environment.
 Act responsibly and perform their work in accordance with this standard and
the established SSOW.
 Understand their obligations of this Isolation and Tagging Procedure
D16/695.
 Take reasonable care to protect the health and safety of themselves and
others, and to protect the environment.
 Report all injuries, incidents and hazards to the supervisor.
 Only carry out tasks that they have been verified and authorised to do so
through training and or assessment.

Document Owner: Safety & Security Manager Version No: 06 Issue Date: 30/10/2019
Approved by: GM HSES Reference: Record No: D16/695
UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED Page 19 of 20
 Isolation and Tagging Procedure

10. REFERENCES
10.1. External
 Mines Safety and Inspection Act 1994 (WA)
 Mines Safety and Inspection Regulations1995 (WA)
 Occupational Safety and Health Act 1984 (WA)
 Occupational Safety and Health Regulations 1996 (WA)
 Electricity Act 1945 (WA)
 Electricity Regulations 1947 (WA)
 AS/NZ 3000, Wiring Rules.
 Isolation of Hazardous Energies Associated with Plant in WA Mining Operations – Guideline
 Department of Commerce Western Australia – guidance note: Isolation of Plant 2010
10.2. Internal
 D16/442 Isolation Confirmation Permit
 D16/444 Lock Box Sign on Sign off
 D16/7720 Commissioning / Testing Control Sheet
 D16/983 Personal Danger Tag Removal Authorisation
 D16/808 Electrical Procedure – Low Voltage Work Practices
 D15/1901 High Voltage Isolation and Access Procedure
 D16/1013 Signage Standard
 D16/20442 Register - Appointed Group Isolators.
 Isolation Guides

Document Owner: Safety & Security Manager Version No: 06 Issue Date: 30/10/2019
Approved by: GM HSES Reference: Record No: D16/695
UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED Page 20 of 20