Authorized employee (lockout/tagout)
The person who locks or tags out equipment to service or maintain it.
Definition, in the source's words
29 CFR 1910.147(b)(opens ecfr.gov in a new tab)“Authorized employee. A person who locks out or tags out machines or equipment in order to perform servicing or maintenance on that machine or equipment. An affected employee becomes an authorized employee when that employee's duties include performing servicing or maintenance covered under this section.”
What it means
Authorized employees get the deepest training: under 1910.147(c)(7)(i)(A) they learn to recognize hazardous energy sources, the type and magnitude of energy in the workplace, and the methods for isolation and control.
Example
A millwright who locks out a packaging line to replace a drive belt is the authorized employee. If the line operator is later trained and assigned to change the belt, the operator becomes an authorized employee too.
Where it appears on the exam
ASP: ASP11 Domain 2, Safety Programs and Concepts
Practice: Lockout/Tagout (Hazardous Energy)
CSP: CSP11 Domain 1, Advanced Application of Safety Principles
Practice: Confined Spaces and Lockout/Tagout
Questions
- What's the difference between authorized and affected employees?
- The authorized employee applies the lock or tag and does the servicing. The affected employee operates or works around the equipment being serviced and needs to know what the lockout means, but doesn't apply it.
Related
Checked 2026-10-16. Spot a problem? Email hello@passcited.com.