Final answer:
The true statement about outside contractors performing lockout at a facility is that they are authorized to independently perform lockout procedures after receiving proper training and authorization. The host employer must ensure contractors are adequately trained and knowledgeable in the facility's lockout/tagout procedures. The correct option is C.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question pertains to the procedures involving lockout by outside contractors at a facility. Lockout is a safety procedure used to ensure that dangerous machines are properly shut off and cannot be started up again prior to the completion of maintenance or repair work, thereby protecting workers from potential hazards. A critical aspect of lockout is ensuring that individuals who perform these procedures are properly trained and authorized to do so, irrespective of whether they are employees or external contractors.
According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and other regulatory bodies, the correct statement concerning outside contractors performing lockout at your facility is: "C) Outside contractors are authorized to independently perform lockout procedures after receiving proper training and authorization." This assertion recognizes the importance of proper training and authorization before allowing such critical safety procedures to be conducted. Outside contractors must be given the same level of training and follow the same procedures as internal employees to ensure safety is not compromised.
It is the responsibility of the host employer to confirm that the contractors have received adequate training and are competent in understanding and applying lockout/tagout procedures. Thus, the establishment must have a delineated protocol to verify contractors' qualifications, coordinate lockout/tagout activities, and communicate any facility-specific hazards. At no point should untrained or unauthorized individuals perform lockout activities, as this could lead to serious accidents and violations of workplace safety regulations.