The OSHA standard for The Control of Hazardous Energy, 29 CFR 1910.147 addresses the practices and procedures necessary to disable machinery or equipment, thereby preventing the release of hazardous energy while employees perform servicing and maintenance activities. The standard outlines measures for controlling hazardous energies - electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, chemical, thermal and other energy sources.

In addition, 29 CFR 1910.333 sets forth requirements to protect employees working on electrical circuits and equipment. This section requires workers to use safe work practices, including lockout and tagging procedures. These provisions apply when employees are exposed to electrical hazards while working on, near, or with conductors or systems that use electrical energy.