OSHA Notice Out Of Service Sign Stickers

An Out Of Service sign means the equipment has been formally removed from active service and must not be operated until it has been inspected, repaired, and authorized for return to service by the appropriate person. Out of Service is a formal equipment status designation indicating the equipment is not available for use stronger than a general Do Not Use notice and typically used when equipment has a known defect, has failed inspection, or requires scheduled maintenance.

Out Of Service is a formal status designation typically used in regulated industries, safety management systems, and facilities with documented equipment lifecycle programs. It implies the equipment has been formally removed from service by an authorized person following a defined process. Out Of Order is a more informal designation indicating the equipment is not functioning. Both communicate that the equipment should not be used, but Out Of Service carries a more formal, documented status implication.

Post at the primary operator interface control panel, power switch, or main operator position and at all access points to the equipment. For equipment that could be accessed from multiple locations, post at every access point. The sign should be placed so it is immediately visible to any worker approaching the equipment before they have the opportunity to attempt operation.

No. An Out Of Service sign communicates equipment status but does not constitute an energy control measure under OSHA 29 CFR 1910.147 (Control of Hazardous Energy / Lockout Tagout). For equipment that requires energy isolation before servicing or maintenance, the full OSHA 29 CFR 1910.147 lockout/tagout procedure must be followed including applying lockout devices, completing energy verification, and following your facility's written energy control program. The Out Of Service sign can be used alongside lockout/tagout measures but does not replace them.

Your facility should have a documented return-to-service process that includes: completing required repairs or maintenance, conducting the appropriate inspection or testing, obtaining authorization from the designated approver (typically a supervisor, safety officer, or maintenance manager), removing the Out Of Service sign and any lockout/tagout devices in accordance with OSHA 29 CFR 1910.147, and documenting the return to service in your equipment maintenance records.