Do Not Operate Tag

Do Not Operate Tag for General Control and Lever Isolation

The Do Not Operate Tag is a punched hang-tag used aboard ships and in port and terminal facilities to warn personnel not to operate a specific control, lever, switch, or handle while maintenance, testing, or other work is in progress elsewhere in the connected system. It covers controls more broadly than the dedicated valve tags, extending to levers, switchgear, control panels, and mechanical handles where inadvertent operation could endanger personnel or disrupt isolated equipment.

When to Use This Tag

Attach the Do Not Operate Tag to any lever, control handle, switch, or panel that must remain untouched for the duration of a job, such as during electrical isolation, mechanical linkage servicing, or when downstream equipment depends on the control remaining in its current position. It is a standard component of lockout/tagout (LOTO) and permit-to-work systems, giving other crew or contractors an immediate, unambiguous instruction before they touch the control.

Design and Materials

Each tag features a red prohibition circle-and-slash symbol over a hand-and-lever pictogram, above a bold “DO NOT OPERATE” panel, printed on fire-retardant, photoluminescent laminated card stock a long-duration afterglow. This ensures the warning remains visible during power loss or in poorly lit compartments such as engine rooms, control rooms, and machinery spaces. The card is waterproof and resistant to saltwater exposure, making it suitable for prolonged use in marine and offshore environments. A reinforced punched hole at the top allows the tag to be secured with a cable tie or wire loop.

Installation and Use

Loop a cable tie or wire tie through the punched hole and secure the tag directly to the lever, control handle, or switch, ensuring the warning panel faces outward and remains clearly legible to anyone approaching the controls. The “Authorised by” and “Date” fields at the base of the tag should be completed by the person applying it, providing a simple accountability record consistent with standard lockout/tagout and permit-to-work documentation practices. Because the tag is a physical hang-tag rather than an adhesive label, it can be quickly attached, removed, or transferred between controls as required without leaving residue or damaging equipment surfaces.

Compliance and Standards

The tag’s pictogram and wording follow internationally recognised hazard communication conventions used across the maritime and industrial safety sectors, aligning with IMO Resolution A.1116(30) guidance on shipboard signage and supporting broader isolation and lockout/tagout obligations such as those set out by Safe Work Australia. Vessel operators should confirm the tag meets any flag-state or class-specific requirements applicable to their permit-to-work and isolation procedures.

Ordering Information

This Do Not Operate Tag is supplied under IMPA code 33.2530 and ISSA code 47.525.30, sized 150x75mm. It forms part of Safety Sign Hub’s full Tie Tags range, which covers the complete set of lockout/tagout and hazard-identification tags used across marine vessels, offshore installations, and port facilities. Contact Safety Sign Hub for bulk ordering or custom tag requirements.