Energy Isolation Checklist Calculator

1. Enter the job/task, location, supervisor, and work date.
2. Select all energy sources that apply to the equipment or system.
3. Tick each isolation step you completed during lockout and tagout.
4. Confirm stored energy release and pick your main verification method.
5. Press Calculate Checklist to view results above the form.
6. Use Download CSV or Download PDF to save the record.

1) Why energy isolation matters on construction sites

Energy isolation reduces unexpected start-up and stored-energy release during maintenance, cleaning, and commissioning. Construction equipment can contain electrical feeds, rotating inertia, hydraulic pressure, compressed air, hot surfaces, gravity loads, and chemical lines. A consistent checklist helps crews control these hazards before tools touch the work.

2) Typical equipment and high-risk tasks

Common scenarios include pumps, conveyors, hoists, compactors, generators, welding sets, and temporary plant. High-risk tasks include clearing jams, replacing guards, changing belts, servicing cylinders, draining lines, and working inside confined equipment. The checklist is designed to fit short shutdown windows without losing critical controls.

3) Capturing job information for traceability

Job/task, location, supervisor, and date create a traceable record that can be matched to permits, method statements, and daily briefings. Lock counts and authorized workers provide quick evidence that isolation devices were applied and that competent personnel were assigned to control removal and re-energization.

4) Selecting energy sources with practical examples

Electrical covers panel feeds, battery backups, and control circuits. Mechanical includes springs, flywheels, and rotating shafts. Hydraulic and pneumatic represent pressurized lines and accumulators. Thermal includes steam, hot oil, and heated surfaces. Gravity captures raised loads or counterweights that must be blocked, pinned, or supported.

5) Step weights reflect critical controls

Not all checklist items carry equal risk reduction. This tool assigns higher weight to isolate, lockout, release stored energy, and verify zero-energy state. The weighted completion percentage helps supervisors focus on the controls that most directly prevent injury, equipment damage, and unplanned downtime.

6) Interpreting Completion and Isolation Index

Completion shows how many weighted steps were achieved. The Isolation Index adjusts that score for complexity by slightly reducing the result when many energy sources exist, and by applying a stronger penalty when stored energy is not confirmed released. Use the index as a quick screening indicator, not a legal determination.

7) Verification and “try start” discipline

Verification should be specific to the hazard: a meter on electrical, gauge readings on pressure systems, visual checks on isolation points, and controlled “try start” tests. Record the primary method used and ensure the work area is clear. Verification is strongest when paired with locks, tags, and isolation point identification.

8) Documentation, handover, and closeout

After work, follow your site’s restoration sequence: remove tools, reinstall guards, clear personnel, and communicate re-energization steps. Keep the downloaded record with permits and lock logs for audits and incident learning. Regular review of “Needs Review” outcomes highlights training needs and procedure gaps.

1) What is “stored energy” in this checklist?
Stored energy is energy that remains after shutdown, such as hydraulic pressure, compressed air, spring force, gravity loads, heat, or capacitor charge. It must be released, restrained, or blocked before work starts.

2) Why does the calculator use weighted steps?
Some actions reduce risk more than others. Isolation, locking, releasing stored energy, and verification prevent most unexpected start-up events. Weighting helps emphasize these high-impact controls in the completion score.

3) What does the Isolation Index represent?
The index is a 0–100 quality indicator based on completion, number of energy sources, and stored-energy confirmation. It helps compare jobs and highlight higher-complexity isolations that may need additional review.

4) Can I use “try start” as my only verification?
Try start is helpful but should match site procedures and hazards. For electrical and pressure systems, instrument verification is often required. Use try start only when the area is clear and the test is controlled.

5) How many locks should be applied?
Apply locks per your program and isolation points. Many sites require a lock for each isolating device and, in group lockout, locks on a lock box. The lock count field supports documentation, not enforcement.

6) What should I do if status shows “Needs Review”?
Re-check isolation points, confirm stored energy release, and ensure lockout and verification steps are completed. If the job is complex or unusual, escalate to a competent person or supervisor before proceeding.

7) Does this replace permits or formal lockout procedures?
No. The calculator supports documentation and consistency. Always follow your approved lockout/tagout program, permits, method statements, and training requirements. Use the exported record as an attachment to site paperwork.

This page supports structured documentation of energy isolation. It does not replace site procedures, permits, or training. Always follow your approved program and verify isolation before work begins.