Energy sources on a typical vacuum packer
Every machine is different: check your model's nameplate, wiring and the manufacturer's manual. This is where most vacuum packers get their energy and how it is usually isolated.
| Energy | Typical magnitude | Isolating device | How to control it |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electrical | 120–240 V cord and plug, or 208–480 V hard-wired (large units) | Plug or machine disconnect | Unplug and fit a plug lockout cover, or switch OFF and lock and tag the disconnect. |
| Thermal (heat) | Seal bar at sealing temperature | None — cool down | Let the seal bar cool before touching or replacing the seal tape. |
| Stored mechanical (motion, springs, tension) | Lid on gas springs or hinge; pump | Lid open and supported | Open the lid fully and make sure it cannot close on its own. |
| Pneumatic (compressed air) | Vacuum in the chamber, gas flush (if fitted) | Gas flush supply valve (if fitted) | Let the chamber return to atmospheric pressure; close and lock the gas flush supply if fitted. |
Shutting it down
- Stop any running cycle and switch the machine OFF.
- Open the lid and let the chamber vent to atmospheric pressure.
Releasing stored energy
- Let the seal bar cool.
- Make sure the lid is fully open and cannot fall.
Verifying isolation
- Press ON and start a cycle: nothing must start. Return the switch to OFF.
Turn this into your written procedure
Add your company, the machine ID, the voltage and where each disconnect and valve is. You get a machine-specific procedure that follows the structure of 29 CFR 1910.147(c)(4), with an approval block and printable DANGER tags.
Start with the vacuum packer templateQuestions
Does a vacuum packer need its own lockout procedure?
OSHA 29 CFR 1910.147(c)(4) requires documented procedures for the control of hazardous energy. A procedure is not required only when all eight conditions of the exception in (c)(4)(i) are met, for example a single energy source that can be readily identified and isolated. Most machines with more than one energy source need a written, machine-specific procedure.
Is unplugging enough?
For cord-and-plug equipment, the lockout standard does not apply when the equipment is unplugged and the plug is under the exclusive control of the employee doing the work (1910.147(a)(2)(iii)(A)). If the plug can be out of sight or reach, use a plug lockout cover with a personal lock.
Is the interlocked guard enough?
No. Guard interlocks and emergency stops are not energy isolating devices and do not replace lockout during servicing, cleaning or clearing jams.
General information, not legal advice. Verify every energy source on the actual machine and have the procedure approved by a qualified person.