Who authorizes the removal of tags?

The removal of tags that indicate a piece of equipment or a work area has been deemed unsafe or is undergoing maintenance is a critical process within safety and quality assurance protocols. The authority to authorize the removal of these tags lies with the Authorizing Officer (AO). This individual is typically responsible for overseeing the safety protocols and ensuring compliance with regulations and safety standards.

The AO’s role requires intimate knowledge of the circumstances under which tags can be legitimately removed and the authority to make decisions that impact safety. This includes verifying that all conditions for tag removal have been met, such as completion of necessary safety checks or successful corrective actions.

In contrast, roles such as Craftsman, Quality Assurance Inspector (QAI), and Quality Assurance Officer (QAO) may be involved in inspecting, reporting, or carrying out work on tagged equipment, but they do not carry the final authority to lift the tag. Their responsibilities are more focused on assessing conditions and ensuring ongoing compliance with safety standards rather than making definitive decisions regarding tag removal.