Definition - What does zero energy state mean?
Zero energy state is the point at which machinery or equipment has no energy flowing to or from it and as a result, does not have the potential to cause accidental physical harm or injury if handled in this state. Zero energy state is a safety standard set out by the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OSHA) as part of safety procedures to help protect workers from accidental injury or death. Zero energy state is not just turning off a machine and removing the keys. There can be no energy left for the machine to utilize, even if turned off at the time.
SureHire explains zero energy state
The Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) requires that organizations implement the necessary safety procedures for the handling of machinery or equipment during repairs, cleaning, calibration, and maintenance in order to prevent unnecessary physical injuries or fatalities. Industry best practice and equipment safety guidelines must be followed in order to ensure that machinery reaches zero energy state before being handled by workers. Zero energy state ensures that energy is isolated and eliminated from the equipment preventing injuries such as compression, pinching, trauma, and removal of limbs.
