Lockout/Tagout: It Only Takes One Second

Working around balers and compactors is serious business. These machines generate thousands of pounds of force — and when they start unexpectedly, there’s no time to react.

One missed step.
One assumption that “it’s off.”
One second.

That’s all it takes for crushed fingers, amputations, or worse.

Turning It Off Isn’t Enough

Balers and compactors contain multiple energy sources:

• Electrical power
• Hydraulic pressure
• Stored mechanical force

Even when a machine appears shut down, hidden energy can remain. Without proper Lockout/Tagout (LOTO), equipment can restart unexpectedly or release stored pressure during service.

Why LOTO Matters

Proper Lockout/Tagout ensures:

• All power sources are disconnected
• Stored energy is released
• Equipment cannot restart during maintenance
• Zero energy is verified before work begins

Skipping LOTO doesn’t just risk injury — it can lead to OSHA violations, costly downtime, and permanent damage to your workforce and operation.

Make It Non-Negotiable

Before clearing jams or performing maintenance:

• Lock and tag the machine
• Verify zero electrical and hydraulic energy
• Release stored pressure
• Keep guards and safety devices in place
• Never assume someone else powered it down

Lockout/Tagout isn’t paperwork. It’s a life-saving procedure.

Every machine. Every time. No exceptions.

For service support or safety guidance: 
📞 888-8BA-LERS  | ✉️ service@elyent.com