Description:FIELD OF INVENTION
The present disclosure generally relates to the field of safety tagging systems. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to a digital tagging system and a method thereof.
DEFINITIONS
As used in the present disclosure, the following terms are generally intended to have the meaning as set forth below, except to the extent that the context in which they are used to indicate otherwise.
Tag card(s)/ Tag plate: The term ‘Tag card(s)/ Tag plate’ hereinafter refers to a reusable acrylic sheet(s) having a QR code (s) thereon. These sheets serve as digital tags, with each tag being assigned a distinct tag ID. The QR code is either attached to the acrylic sheet or embedded thereon.
Isolation points: The term ‘Isolation points’ hereinafter refers to a part of electrical and mechanical equipment that has been isolated so that energy or power cannot be transmitted to it. The isolation points include the locations where tags are to be located and locks are to be placed.
Outage Schedules: The term ‘Outage Schedules’ hereinafter refers to a set of instructions for the organized and planned shutdown of equipment. The planned shutdown involves the systematic disconnection of various equipment from the electrical grid. The purpose of outage schedules is to facilitate activities such as inspection, maintenance, or refueling of interconnected equipment. This equipment is selected from groups consisting of generating units, transmission lines, or other components in connection.
Annual Maintenance Schedule (AMS): The term ‘Annual Maintenance Schedule (AMS)’ hereinafter refers to a direction for finding the timetable of the maintenance outage of power system units and equipment over a given period. The maintenance involves inspecting, maintaining, repairing, and replacing equipment, machinery, and other assets that support the everyday operations of electrical and mechanical equipment.
Order list: The term ‘Order list’ hereinafter refers to a list of orders that indicates the current working status of the equipment and the status includes the assigned tags, unassigned tags, takeover tags, handover tags, and closure tags.
A set of assigning rules: The term ‘A set of assigning rules’ is a set of instructions that involves the allocation of isolation points based on the type of equipment, location of equipment, currents, and timeline of the annual maintenance schedule (AMS). The isolation points are determined based on the tag attached to the electrical equipment. The isolation points are allocated to perform scheduled inspection, maintenance, or refueling of the interconnected equipment. The allocated isolation point(s) is provided with an assigned tag(s).
A set of handover rules: The term ‘A set of handover rules’ is a set of instructions that involves validation of the assigned tags and checking for available employees or working parties for allotment of the handover of the tags. For example, the load dispatcher may authorize the control room engineer on duty to handover a turbo-generator to an available employee or working party.
A set of takeover rules: The term ‘A set of takeover rules’ is a set of instructions that involves validation of the handover tags and checking for available employees or working parties for allotment of the takeover tags. For example, the party who would be taking over the equipment for work or tests and the like whose name appears under “Issued to”.
A set of closure rules: The term ‘A set of closure rules’ is a set of instructions that involves validation of the assigned tags or handover tags or takeover tags and closing the tags to mark said tag as a completed task and avoiding reassignments or reallotment of tags.
Scheduler Module: The term ‘Scheduler Module’ hereinafter refers to a type of module in which the module schedules an outage as per the annual maintenance schedule (AMS) of electrical and mechanical equipment by an issuing person and assigns isolation points with locations to at least one electrical and mechanical equipment.
Assignee Module: The term ‘Assignee Module’ hereinafter refers to a type of module in which the module validates the details of the tags, and assigns the tags to at least one employee or working party.
Handover Module: The term ‘Handover Module’ hereinafter refers to a module in which the module validates the assigned tags and handover the tag of at least one electrical and mechanical equipment to another employee or working party.
Takeover Module: The term ‘Takeover Module’ hereinafter refers to a type of module in which the module validates the handover tags and the takeover of the tag by another employee or working party.
Closure Module: The term ‘Closure Module’ hereinafter refers to a type of module in which the module validates the takeover tags and closes the tags that indicate that the task/operation is completed.
Release tags: The term ‘Release tags’ hereinafter refers to a type of tags to identify the listed function of the type of tags and their purpose to operate an operation.
Release Order: The term ‘Release Order’ hereinafter refers to a type of order which indicates a line or equipment that is released from the service. The line or equipment covered by said tag is to be released from service and the persons working under it are to have obtained a release.
Release Notice: The term ‘Release Notice” hereinafter refers to a direction provided for all isolation points except the master control of equipment in a station. The tag requires only the recording of the number of releases, the name of the line or equipment, and the person to whom the release is issued with the dateline.
Operating Permit: The term ‘Operating Permit’ hereinafter refers to an authorization given to users under whose control an equipment may be situated. The user carries out tests on any equipment, like meggering, hipot test, current injection test, or any other test which is likely to inject or induce high voltage and dangerous electric charge, relay testing, or trial tripping of energized or de-energized equipment like circuit breakers, valve operations, a trial run of the machine and its adjustments, operation of valves/gates, etc. user shall apply for an operating permit.
Caution Order: The term ‘Caution Order’ hereinafter refers to a type of order which indicates abnormal conditions such as failure, hazards, relay inoperative, equipment not in service, temporary changes in operating rules, and the like.
Construction Order: The term ‘Construction Order’ hereinafter refers to an order that gives directions for the use of removing the equipment from the normal jurisdiction of an operating organization and permits the construction personnel to work on, move, operate, or energize the equipment at will with the restriction.
BACKGROUND
The background information herein below relates to the present disclosure but is not necessarily prior art.
The Lock Out and Tag Out process is an important safety procedure followed by every industry to ensure the safety of workers and equipment. The process involves identifying the isolation points of the equipment and the person responsible for the work. The tags used in the process are of different types, such as Release Order, Release Notice, Operating Permit, Caution Notice, and Construction Order, each serving a different purpose and having different properties for identification.
Currently, there are existing systems that are used to provide the tagging system which provides a method for keeping track of and showing a machine's or piece of equipment's status so that the staff can see if it's in good operating order.
The tag consists of a holder and an insert and is made especially for certain types of machinery and equipment. These tags are made of paper or any laminated material where the equipment details are written manually or printed by using a digital printer. These tags are used by attaching them to machinery to indicate safety regulations, asset tags to identify the machine and descriptions of faculty equipment. These tags are easy to tamper with and do not work in a variety of site conditions, including extreme weather conditions.
However, due to the site conditions, the tags used in the traditional Lock Out and Tag Out (LOTO) process can get deteriorated and lose information due to water, smudge, or tear in the process.
The traditional paper-based Lock Out and Tag Out (LOTO) systems do not offer reusable tags.
Therefore, there is felt a need for a digital tagging system and a method thereof.
OBJECTS
Some of the objects of the present disclosure, which at least one embodiment herein satisfies, are as follows:
An object of the present disclosure is to provide a digital tagging system.
Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a mechanism for scheduling an outage for the annual maintenance schedule (AMS).
Yet another object of the present disclosure is to provide a mechanism for identifying at least one electrical and mechanical equipment to assign an isolation point.
Still another object of the present disclosure is to provide a mechanism for assigning isolation points with locations to one or more electrical and mechanical equipment.
Yet another object of the present disclosure is to provide a mechanism for validating the details of the tag and assigning the tags to one or more employees.
Still another object of the present disclosure is to provide a mechanism for validating the assigned tags details and handover the tags to one or more employees.
Yet another object of the present disclosure is to provide a mechanism for validating the handover of tags details and the takeover of the tags by one or more employees.
Still another object of the present disclosure is to provide a mechanism for validating the takeover tags details for the closing tag.
Yet another object of the present disclosure is to provide a mechanism for scanning digital code for retrieving tag details and the current status of the tags.
Still another object of the present disclosure is to provide a method for digital tagging.
Other objects and advantages of the present disclosure will be more apparent from the following description, which is not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.
SUMMARY
The present disclosure envisages a digital tagging system. The system includes a plurality of tag cards, a server, and a scanner device.
The plurality of tag cards embedded with digital codes.
The server implements a web-based platform accessible by an application.
The repository is configured to store details of tag cards, details of isolation points with locations, employee details, details of outage schedules, details of annual maintenance schedule (AMS), details of order list, a set of assigning rules, a set of handover rules, a set of takeover rules, and a set of closure rules.
The scheduler module is configured to receive the annual maintenance schedule (AMS) from the repository and schedule an outage for the annual maintenance schedule (AMS) of equipment by an issuing person and is further configured to assign isolation points with locations to at least one equipment, wherein each tag cards are attached to each equipment and stored the tag cards in the order listed in the repository.
The assignee module is configured to cooperate with the scheduler module to receive the order list from the repository and select at least one tag from the order list to validate the details of the tags and further configured to assign the tags to at least one employee by means of the set of assigning rules.
The handover module is configured to cooperate with the assignee module to receive the assigned tags to validate the assigned tags and handover to another employee by means of the set of handover rules and update the tag with handover details which include details of tag handover by employee and tag handover on a date with time.
The takeover module is configured to cooperate with the handover module to receive the handover tags to validate the handover tags and takeover by another employee by means of the set of takeover rules and update the tag with takeover details which include details of tag takeover by employee and tag takeover on a date with time.
The closure module is configured to cooperate with the assignee module, the handover module, and the takeover module to receive either the assigned tags or the handover tags, or the takeover tags to validate the tags and close tags by means of the set of closure rules and update the tag with closure details which include details of the tag closed on a date with time, wherein the closed tags indicate the completion of a task.
The scanner device is configured to cooperate with the application to scan the tag cards embedded with digital codes to retrieve the tag details and the current status of the tags, wherein the tag details include tag handover by, tag handover on, tag takeover by, tag takeover on, and a date with time.
The plurality of tag cards, the scheduler module, the assignee module, the handover module, the takeover module, the closure module, the application, and the scanner device are executed by one or more microprocessors.
In an aspect, the application provides details that include notifications, work orders, permit lists, isolation lists, tags, inspection, MIS, utilities, alert logs, user logs, send messages, and settings.
In an aspect, the permit lists provide a list of all active and completed lists for filling, operating, issuing, and releasing permits, permit issuer, and permit acceptor.
In an aspect, the tag cards are selected from a group of release tags having types of tags containing a release order, a release notice, an operating permit, a caution order, and a construction order.
In an aspect, the tag cards are in different colors to represent the types of tags.
In an aspect, the tag cards are issued by issuing person in charge of each isolation point in coordination with a Power System Control Centre (PSCC).
In an aspect, the tag cards are placed and removed by an operating person in charge.
In an aspect, the tag cards are released or closed after the completion of work or equipment is cleared for service.
In an aspect, the locks are placed at the isolation points with the tag cards.
In an aspect, the locks are placed and removed by both the permit issuer and permit acceptor.
In an aspect, the tags include a job_id, a tag type, tag current state of the job, a tag assigned by, a tag permit type, name of employee or id of the employee, tag handover by, tag handover on, tag takeover by, tag takeover on, and a date with time.
In an aspect, the tags are assigned or reassigned or unassigned or handover, or takeover in accordance with the work orders.
In an aspect, the digital code is a virtual code, Quick Response (QR) code, Bar code, code word, passcode, a two-dimensional barcode, or any graphical code which is scanned by a scanner.
In an aspect, the system applies to electrical and mechanical equipment.
In an aspect, the isolation points are determined by identifying a list of locations.
In an aspect, the system performs an operation which includes step-by-step safeguard of every station equipment to maintenance work, tagging scheme, nature and scope of the work, the safety precautions, abnormal switching operation requiring special tagging, a scheme preparation in advance in consultation with the authorized person.
In an aspect, the set of assigning rules assigns isolation points by determining the type of equipment, location of equipment, currents, and timeline of the annual maintenance schedule (AMS).
In an aspect, the set of handover rules validates the assigned tags and checks for available employees for allotment of the tags.
In an aspect, the set of takeover rules validates the handover tags and checks for available employees for allotment of the takeover tags.
In an aspect, the set of closure rules validates the takeover tags and closes the tags for reassignments.
In an aspect, the application is configured to check the details of the tag cards in real-time.
In an aspect, the closure module can close the assigned tags or the handover tags, or the takeover tags individually or collectively in real-time.
In an aspect, the scanner device is selected from a group consisting of QR code scanner devices, mobile devices, scanner machines, optical scanning devices, and smartphones.
The present disclosure further envisages a method for digital tagging. The method comprises the following steps:
• receiving, by a scheduler module, the annual maintenance schedule (AMS) from the repository;
• scheduling, by the scheduler module, an outage for the annual maintenance schedule (AMS) of equipment by an authorizing person;
• assigning, by the scheduler module, isolation points with locations to at least one equipment, wherein tag cards are attached to each equipment and stored the tag cards in the order listed in the repository;
• receiving, by an assignee module, the order list from the repository;
• selecting, by the assignee module, at least one tag from the order list;
• validating, by the assignee module, the details of the tags,
• assigning, by the assignee module, the tags to at least one employee by means of the set of assigning rules;
• receiving, by a handover module, the assigned tags;
• validating, by the handover module, the assigned tags to handover the tag to another employee by means of the set of handover rules;
• updating, by the handover module, the tag with handover details which includes details of tag handover by employee and tag handover on a date with time;
• receiving, by a takeover module, the handover tags;
• validating, by the takeover module, the handover tags to takeover the tag to another employee by means of the set of takeover rules;
• updating, by takeover module, the tag with takeover details which includes details of tag takeover by employee and tag takeover on a date with time;
• receiving, by a closure module, either the assigned tags or the handover tags, or the takeover tags;
• validating, by the closure module 104f, the tags;
• closing, by the closure module 104f, the tags for service by means of the set of closure rules, wherein the closed tags indicate the completion of a task; and
• scanning, by a scanner device, the digital codes of the tag cards to retrieve the tags details and the current status of the tags, wherein the tags details include tag handover by, tag handover on, tag takeover by, tag takeover on, and a date with time.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE ACCOMPANYING DRAWING
A digital tagging system and a method thereof of the present disclosure will now be described with the help of the accompanying drawing, in which:
Figure 1 illustrates a block diagram of a digital tagging system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
Figure 2A-2C illustrates a flow chart depicting the steps involved in a method for digital tagging in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
Figures 3A-3I illustrate a diagram for assigning a tag card in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure and Figure 3J illustrates a diagram of the tag after assigned;
Figures 4A-4C illustrate a diagram for the handover of a tag card in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure and Figure 4D illustrates a diagram of the tag after handed over;
Figures 5A-5C illustrate a diagram for a takeover of a tag card in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure and Figure 5D illustrates a diagram of the tag after taken over;
Figures 6A-6C illustrate a diagram for the closure of a tag card in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure and Figure 6D illustrates a diagram of the tag after closure;
Figure 7A and Figure 7B illustrate a diagram of isolated equipment with a digital tagging system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; and
Figure 8A and Figure 8B illustrate a QR-based tag card and digital mobile interface of a tag card in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
LIST OF REFERENCE NUMERALS
100 - System
102 - Plurality of Tag Cards
104 - Server
104a - Repository
104b - Scheduler Module
104c - Assignee Module
104d - Handover Module
104e - Takeover Module
104f - Closure Module
106 - Application
108 - Scanner Device
110 - Isolation Points
112 - Locks
114 - Electrical and Mechanical Equipment
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Embodiments, of the present disclosure, will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawing.
Embodiments are provided so as to thoroughly and fully convey the scope of the present disclosure to the person skilled in the art. Numerous details are set forth, relating to specific components, and methods, to provide a complete understanding of embodiments of the present disclosure. It will be apparent to the person skilled in the art that the details provided in the embodiments should not be construed to limit the scope of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, well-known processes, well-known apparatus structures, and well-known techniques are not described in detail.
The terminology used, in the present disclosure, is only for the purpose of explaining a particular embodiment and such terminology shall not be considered to limit the scope of the present disclosure. As used in the present disclosure, the forms "a,” "an," and "the" may be intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly suggests otherwise. The terms “including,” and “having,” are open-ended transitional phrases and therefore specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not forbid the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof. The particular order of steps disclosed in the method and process of the present disclosure is not to be construed as necessarily requiring their performance as described or illustrated. It is also to be understood that additional or alternative steps may be employed.
When an element is referred to as being “engaged to,” "connected to," or "coupled to" another element, it may be directly engaged, connected or coupled to the other element. As used herein, the term "and/or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed elements.
Currently, there are existing systems that are used to provide the tagging system which provides a method for keeping track of and showing a machine's or piece of equipment's status so that the staff can see if it's in good operating order.
The tag consists of a holder and an insert and is made especially for certain types of machinery and equipment. These tags are made of paper or any laminated material where the equipment details are written manually or printed by using a digital printer. These tags are used by attaching them to machinery to indicate safety regulations, asset tags to identify the machine, and descriptions of faculty equipment. These tags are easy to tamper with and do not work in a variety of site conditions, including extreme weather conditions.
However, due to the site conditions, the tags used in the traditional Lock Out and Tag Out (LOTO) process can get deteriorated and lose information due to water, smudge, or tear in the process.
To overcome the above-mentioned problems, the present disclosure proposes a digital tagging system (hereinafter referred to as “system 100”) and a method (hereinafter referred to as “method 200”) for digital tagging. The system 100 and method 200 are now being described with reference to Figure 1 and Figure 2A-2C.
Referring to Figure 1, the system 100 comprises a plurality of tag cards 102 and server 104, an application (106), and a scanner device (108).
The plurality of tag cards 102 is embedded with digital codes.
The server 104 implements a web-based platform accessible by application 106.
The repository 104a is configured to store details of tag cards, details of isolation points with locations, employee details, details of outage schedules, details of annual maintenance schedule (AMS), details of order list, a set of assigning rules, a set of handover rules, a set of takeover rules, and a set of closure rules.
The scheduler module 104b is configured to receive the annual maintenance schedule (AMS) from the repository 104a and schedule an outage for the annual maintenance schedule (AMS) of equipment by an issuing person and is further configured to assign isolation points 110 with locations to at least one equipment, wherein tag cards 102 are attached to each equipment and stored the tag cards 102 in the order listed in the repository 104a.
The assignee module 104c is configured to cooperate with the scheduler module 104b to receive the order list from the repository 104a and select at least one tags from the order list to validate the details of the tags and further configured to assign the tags to at least one employee by means of the set of assigning rules.
The handover module 104d is configured to cooperate with the assignee module 104c to receive the assigned tags to validate the assigned tags and handover to another employee by means of the set of handover rules and update the tag with handover details which include details of tag handover by employee and tag handover on a date with time.
The takeover module 104e is configured to cooperate with the handover module 104d to receive the handover tags to validate the handover tags and takeover by another employee by means of the set of takeover rules and update the tag with takeover details which include details of tag takeover by employee and tag takeover on a date with time.
The closure module 104f is configured to cooperate with the assignee module, the handover module, and the takeover module 104e to receive either the assigned tags or the handover tags, or the takeover tags to validate the tags and close tags by means of the set of closure rules and update the tag with closure details which include details of the tag closed on a date with time, wherein the closed tags indicate the completion of a task.
The scanner device 108 is configured to cooperate with the application 106 to scan the tag cards 102 embedded with digital codes to retrieve the details of the tags and the current status of the tags 102, wherein the details of the tags include tag handover by, tag handover on, tag takeover by, tag takeover on, and a date with time.
The plurality of tag cards 102, the scheduler module 104b, the assignee module 104c, the handover module 104d, the takeover module 104e, the closure module 104f, the application 106, and the scanner device 108 are executed by one or more microprocessors.
In an aspect, the application 106 provides details that include notifications, work orders, permit lists, isolation lists, tags, inspection, MIS, utilities, alert logs, user logs, send messages, and settings.
In an aspect, the permit lists provide a list of all active and completed lists for filling, operating, issuing, and releasing permits, permit issuer, and permit acceptor.
In an aspect, the tag cards 102 is selected from a group of release tags having types of tags containing a release order, a release notice, an operating permit, a caution order, and a construction order.
In an aspect, the tag cards 102 are in different colors to represent the types of tags.
In an aspect, the tag cards 102 is issued by issuing person in charge of each isolation point in coordination with a Power System Control Centre (PSCC).
In an aspect, the tag cards 102 is placed and removed by an operating person in charge.
In an aspect, the tag cards 102 is released or closed after the completion of work or equipment is cleared for service.
In an aspect, the locks 112 are placed at the isolation points 110 with the tag cards 102.
In an aspect, the locks 112 are placed and removed by both the permit issuer and permit acceptor.
In an aspect, the tags include a job_id, a tag type, tag current state of the job, a tag assigned by, a tag permit type, name of employee or id of the employee, tag handover by, tag handover on, tag takeover by, tag takeover on, and a date with time.
In an aspect, the tags are assigned or reassigned or unassigned or handover, or takeover in accordance with the work orders.
In an aspect, the digital code is a virtual code, Quick Response (QR) code, Bar code, code word, passcode, a two-dimensional barcode, or any graphical code which is scanned by a scanner.
In an aspect, the system 100 applies to electrical and mechanical equipment 114.
In an aspect, the isolation points 110 are determined by identifying a list of locations.
In an aspect, the system performs an operation which includes step-by-step safeguard of every station equipment to maintenance work, tagging scheme, nature and scope of the work, the safety precautions, abnormal switching operation requiring special tagging, a scheme preparation in advance in consultation with the authorized person.
In an aspect, the set of assigning rules assigns isolation points 110 by determining the type of equipment, location of equipment, currents, and timeline of the annual maintenance schedule (AMS).
In an aspect, the set of handover rules validates the assigned tags and checks for available employees for allotment of the tags.
In an aspect, the set of takeover rules validates the handover tags and checks for available employees for allotment of the takeover tags.
In an aspect, the set of closure rules validates the takeover tags and closes the tags for reassignments.
In an aspect, the application 106 is configured to check the details of the tag cards 102 in real-time.
In an aspect, the closure module 104f can close the assigned tags or the handover tags, or the takeover tags individually or collectively in real-time.
In an aspect, the scanner device 108 is selected from a group consisting of QR code scanner devices, mobile devices, scanner machines, optical scanning devices, and smartphones.
In an aspect, the details of the tags and tag reports are accessed and managed by using Systems, Applications & Products in Data Processing (SAP). The SAP is used to control all types of critical business functions.
In an aspect, the system 100 may include a processor. The processor may be implemented as microprocessors, microcomputers, microcontrollers, digital signal processors, central processing units, state machines, logic circuitries, and/or any devices that manipulate signals based on operational instructions. Among other capabilities, the processor may fetch and execute computer-readable instructions stored in memory. The functions of the processor may be provided through the use of dedicated hardware as well as hardware capable of executing machine-readable instructions. The processor may be configured to execute functions of various modules of the system 100 such as the scheduler module 104b, the assignee module 104c, the handover module 104d, the takeover module 104e, the closure module 104f, and the scanner device 108.
Figure 2A-2C illustrates a method 200 for digital tagging in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The order in which method 200 is described is not intended to be construed as a limitation, and any number of the described method blocks may be combined in any order to implement method 200, or an alternative method. Furthermore, method 200 may be implemented by processing resource or computing device(s) through any suitable hardware, non-transitory machine-readable medium/instructions, or a combination thereof. The method 200 comprises the following steps:
At step 202, the method 200 includes receiving, by a scheduler module 104b, the annual maintenance schedule (AMS) from the repository 104a.
At step 204, the method 200 includes scheduling, by the scheduler module 104b, an outage for the annual maintenance schedule (AMS) of equipment by an authorizing person.
At step 206, the method 200 includes assigning, by the scheduler module 104b, isolation points 110 with locations to at least one equipment, wherein tag cards 102 are attached to each equipment and stored the tag cards 102 in the order listed in the repository 104a.
At step 208, the method 200 includes receiving, by an assignee module 104c, the order list from the repository 104a.
At step 210, the method 200 includes selecting, by the assignee module 104c, at least one tags from the order list.
At step 212, the method 200 includes validating, by the assignee module 104c, the details of the tags.
At step 214, the method 200 includes assigning, by the assignee module 104c, the tags to at least one employee by means of the set of assigning rules.
At step 216, the method 200 includes receiving, by a handover module 104d, the assigned tags.
At step 218, the method 200 includes validating, by the handover module 104d, the assigned tags to handover to another employee by means of the set of handover rules.
At step 220, the method 200 includes updating, by the handover module 104d, the tag with handover details which includes details of tag handover by employee and tag handover on a date with time.
At step 222, the method 200 includes receiving, by a takeover module 104e, the handover tags.
At step 224, the method 200 includes validating, by the takeover module 104e, the handover tags to takeover to another employee by means of the set of takeover rules.
At step 226, the method 200 includes updating, by takeover module 104e, the tag with takeover details which includes details of tag takeover by employee and tag takeover on a date with time.
At step 228, the method 200 includes receiving, by a closure module 104f, either the assigned tags or the handover tags, or the takeover tags.
At step 230, the method 200 includes validating, by the closure module 104f, the tags.
At step 232, the method 200 includes closing, by the closure module 104f, the tags for service by means of the set of closure rules.
At step 234, the method 200 includes updating, by the closure module 104f, the tag with closure details which includes details of the tag closed on date with time wherein the closed tags indicate the completion of a task.
At step 236, the method 200 includes scanning, by a scanner device 108, the digital codes of the tag cards 102 to retrieve the details of the tags and the current status of the tags 102, wherein the details of the tags include tag handover by, tag handover on, tag takeover by, tag takeover on, and a date with time.
In an aspect, the process is intended to reduce efforts, create records, and increase the comfort of the person using the system. It provides a more reliable and efficient method for identifying and managing equipment isolation points, ensuring worker safety and equipment integrity. With the implementation of digital LOTO.
In an aspect, the first step is to schedule the outage according to the Annual Maintenance Schedule (AMS). Once the outage is scheduled, all possible isolation points for the particular equipment are identified. Then, the equipment is isolated and kept out of service. Tags are issued for all isolation points in coordination with the Power System Control Centre (PSCC). Different types of tags, such as release orders, release notices, operating permits, caution orders, and construction orders, are used. Locks are placed at all isolation points, along with tags, as part of the Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) process. After the equipment is isolated and tagged, the Field Duty Engineer (FDE) hands over the equipment to the working party. The working party performs all work related to the equipment and informs the FDE when the job is completed. The FDE then comes to the site and informs the PSCC to clear the tag and remove all the tags. All tags are closed and once the equipment is cleared for service, it is taken back into service, indicating that the LOTO process is complete.
In an aspect, the procedure required for the system is as follows: -
• AMS Maintenance Schedule,
• Identify Isolation Points,
• Isolate Equipment and Put Locks along with Tags,
• Handover to the working party,
• Work on equipment,
• Work Completion status is given to Shift In-Charge Engineer,
• Clearance and Tag Removal,
• Close all Tags, and
• Equipment Back in service.
In an aspect, the characteristics of the tagging system include the:
• The tagging system should apply with equal force to both electrical and mechanical equipment, broad enough to cover every condition that can arise and applicable throughout the entire organization.
• The system should be easily understood and reasonably simple in application. A system that is too elaborate becomes burdensome and encourages unsafe shortcuts. Simplicity, however, should not be obtained at the expense of safety.
• It should be workable from the viewpoints of both the issuing authority and workmen.
• Maximum protection will be obtained by the use of more than one type of tag along with lockout, each of which has a unique purpose. The name of each tag should indicate its general use. Each tag should be of a different color.
• To obtain uniformity in safety and tagging practices, each station should incorporate in its station rules, the step-by-step operations to safeguard every station equipment for maintenance work and should list the locations where tags are to be located and locks to be placed. In case of abnormal switching operations or conditions of work regarding a special tagging system, a scheme will be prepared in advance in consultation with Load Control Centre/Division head.
• To ensure the correct functioning of the tagging system, the placement and removal of tags will be the sole responsibility of the operating person in charge. Similarly, tags issued to a working party should be handled by the person concerned only. Placement and removal of locks will be the responsibility of both the permit issuer and permit acceptor. Any person delegating the authority to handle the tags to an unauthorized person as well as the unauthorized person himself would be liable for disciplinary action.
In an aspect, the tags designed are as follows:
RELEASE ORDER: Pink tag, with blueprinting
RELEASE NOTICE: Red tag, with black printing
RELEASE PERMIT: Thin yellow paper with Black printing
CAUTION ORDER: White tag with red printing
OPERATING PERMIT: Green tag with black printing
CONSTRUCTION ORDER: Blue tag with black printing
The first three tags listed function as one tag and the last being used for construction or reconstruction leaves only three types of tags for system operation purposes.
The tags are of shipping tag style, about seven by 15 Cm. Each tag has a string for attaching it to equipment. The tags shall never be attached to energized equipment or to locations where they can get energized. Similarly, a tag should not be placed close to energized equipment in crowded locations, such that the person removing or placing the tag is required to approach the energized equipment closer to safe distances. Special arrangements may be made so that they can be placed and removed safely.
Transparent plastic envelopes will protect tags that are to be placed outdoors during wet weather.
Space is provided on each tag for recording a tag number, the station name, date, time, line or equipment covered, person to whom issued, person, placing, a person ordering, and reason for placing. A summary of the rules covering its use is printed on the back of each tag. All tags must be filled out before being placed.
Placement and removal of the tags must be done by authorized personnel of the operating organization in-charge. Persons on probation or under training apprentices, trainees, shift mazdoors, etc. are not authorized to place, remove or fill up safety tags.
In an aspect, the responsibilities involved under the tagging system.
In an aspect, the three parties are generally required for the correct functioning of the tagging system. The names of these parties appear on the tags and they are as follows:
i. The party authorizing operations and the commencement of the outage, whose name appears under “Ordered by”,
ii. The party carrying out the actual operations and placing the tags, whose name appears under “Placed by”, and
iii. The party who would be taking over the equipment for work or tests etc., whose name appears under “Issued to”.
In an aspect, the functions and responsibilities of these parties are defined below:
a) The Authorizing Party:
The party authorizing operations and the outage will be the party under whose charge or jurisdiction the equipment concerned is placed e.g. the party may be the Load Despatcher, Station In-charge, Divisional In-charge, Incharge-Transmission/Distribution, or their qualified representatives. The names of the authorizing parties should always appear in the Station Rules or operating instructions. This party will be responsible for the following functions:
o Pre-planning of the outage: He/she will ensure that due to the outage, there shall be no interruption in supply or process or lowering of the standard of service or security of the power supply. If any of these factors are involved, he/she will obtain prior concurrence from the consumers or parties concerned. He/she will also inform all concerned parties of the outage soon after it is arranged preferably one or two days in advance.
o Planning of operations: He/she will check if operating instructions for the outage are available to the operating organization. If not, he/she will issue such instructions in advance of the outage.
o Checking the Working Party: He/she will check that the party taking over the equipment is included in the tagging list. If not, and if in his opinion the working party is capable of undertaking the work, he/she will arrange with the concurrence of the Station In-charge to have the party’s name included in the tagging list before handing over the equipment to him/her.
He/she will also check that the working party is familiar with all safety procedures and operations that are to be carried out for isolating and safeguarding the equipment.
o Issuing of the Release Permit: He/she will normally hand over the equipment to the working party. Before handing over, he/she will call the party taking over the equipment in person or on the phone and advice him/her of the isolation and safeguarding of the equipment that is carried out. He/She will ask the working party to confirm that he/she is satisfied with the safety precautions taken on the equipment and inform the working party of the conditions under which the outage has been sanctioned viz. Duration, time to clear in an emergency, etc. He/she would apprise him/her of abnormal conditions, if any, that may exist on the equipment being handed over.
In case the working party is close to the operating party, then the ordering party may authorize the operating party to hand over the equipment, e.g. Load dispatcher may authorize the control room engineer on duty to hand over a turbo-generator to a working party. In such a case the operating party should follow the above-mentioned procedure of handing over.
o Cancellation of an outage: The ordering party is empowered to cancel the outage at any time either before its commencement or during the outage period if system or station conditions so require. In the event of such cancellation, the working party will be asked to clear the equipment within the period prescribed for clearing the equipment in an emergency. It will therefore be necessary for the ordering party to be vigilant and watch carefully the progress of work on the equipment in relation to the system or station operating condition.
o Obtaining Clear: When the working party gives clear, the ordering party will check that the switching conditions of the equipment are normal for taking equipment back into service. If any abnormal conditions still exist, he/she will issue the necessary caution order indicating the restrictions and ensure that adequate tagging is carried out by the operating party.
b) The Operating Party: The operating party is normally the control room engineer on duty for the operations. The operating party will be responsible for the following:
o Cross-check the outage: To study the conditions under which the outage is authorized by the ordering party and ensure that the system or station operation is not affected by the outage. The operating party will keep a vigilant watch on the system or station conditions before and during the outage and in case the outage is likely to affect the system or the station he will advise the ordering or authorizing party of the same without delay.
o Planning of Operations: The operating party will ensure that clear operating and switching instructions are available for the planned outage. If not, he/she will request the ordering party to issue them in advance. The operating party will carry out all operations as per the operating instructions issued and the tagging as per Station rules. He/She will bring to the attention of the ordering party if any amendment is required in the operating instructions and the Station rules due to changed operating conditions.
o Verifying the Working party: The operating party will ensure that the equipment is never handed over to any party not included in the tagging list. He/She will appraise the working party of all the switching operations carried out to isolate and safeguard the equipment and obtain confirmation from him/her that the safety precautions taken are adequate and satisfactory. He/She will study the scope of the work to be carried out by the working party, and if required he/she may ask the working party to carry out additional safety precautions like cordoning off the working area, placing danger boards, additional grounds, etc.
o Cancellation of Outages: In case of a severe system or station emergency during which no delay is permissible in canceling the outage, the operating party may cancel the outage and advise the ordering party as soon as possible thereafter of the cancellation under emergency conditions.
o Obtaining Clear: When the working party gives clear, the operating party will check that the electrical and mechanical condition of the equipment under his/her charge is normal i.e. as it was at the time of handing over, and that all grounds and safeguards placed by the working party are removed. He/She will also find out from the working party if any abnormal operating conditions exist and if so he/she will prepare suitable caution orders for them under instructions from the ordering party. If everything is clear, the operating party will take the equipment into service as per station rules and operating instructions, and the grounds and safeguards placed by the working party are cleared. He/she will also find out from the working party if any abnormal operating conditions exist and if so he/she will prepare suitable caution orders for them under instructions from the ordering party. If everything is clear, the operating party will take the equipment into service as per station rules and operating instructions, after obtaining authorization from the ordering party.
c) The Working Party: The working party will be a person whose name is included in the tagging list of the station or division concerned and who is familiar with all operations that are to be carried out for isolating and safeguarding the equipment.
The working party will have the following responsibilities:
o Preplanning of the Outage and Operations: The working party will fully familiarize themselves with the operations that are planned in connection with the outage.
He/she will be responsible for checking that the isolation and safeguarding that is proposed to be carried out would be adequate and sufficient for the work planned. If any special safeguarding or tagging is required, he/she should advise the operating party.
o Taking Over the Equipment: Before taking over the equipment, the working party will visually inspect all points of isolation, safeguarding, and tagging of the equipment. If the working party is away from the operating party and is taking over the equipment by telephone, he/she should ask the operating party for all details of isolation, safeguarding, and tagging to satisfy himself/herself of the safety precautions taken and should also obtain a third party confirmation of the same. If he/she finds that the operations carried out do not provide adequate safety, he/she should ask the operating party to carry out further isolation and tagging as per his/her requirements.
He/she will be fully responsible for ensuring that safe conditions of working exist for all personnel working under him/her & will take all necessary precautions like placing grounds at the location of work, placing danger boards at necessary locations, and cordoning off safe areas, etc.
Before taking over he/she will carefully note the conditions under which the outage is arranged and will work within those restrictions. He/she will advise the crew working under him/her of the exact location, nature, and scope of the work and the safety precautions to be taken. The crew should not be authorized to work unless this briefing is adequately carried out at the location of work.
o Giving Clear: On completion of the work and before clearing the equipment, he/she will restore the equipment to the same operating condition electrically and mechanically in which he/she had taken it over, by removing grounds placed, reconnecting jumpers that may have been removed, etc.
If any abnormal conditions exist on the equipment, the operating party will be advised and will have the necessary caution order issued. He/she should advise the crew working under him to clear away from the work location before giving clear to the operating party.
The above mechanics of safety tagging provides that each phase of the outage is double checked viz. preplanning, switching operations, safety measures, clearing, etc. Thus if one party omits a particular detail of an outage, it is detected and corrected by the other party.
In an aspect, the types of tags are:-
A) Release Order:
o Purpose: In an aspect, the tag is used to protect personnel at work on de-energized lines or equipment. The word ‘’release’’ was adopted from the thought “a line or equipment is released from service”. The line or equipment covered by this tag is said to be released from service and the persons working under it are said to have obtained a Release.
o Issuing of Release: In an aspect, the release shall never be in force on any energized line or equipment. lines or equipment upon which release tags alone are issued shall never be energized or operated by any person until all persons holding releases have reported clear.
In an aspect, the word energized as used in tagging systems refers to any electrical or mechanical force including steam, air, water, fluids, or gas that might be dangerous to persons coming into contact with it. It is not permissible to energize the equipment released under the “Release Order” tag from any source of power whether normal or external like mechanical or electrical charging.
In an aspect, whenever the meggering of electrical equipment does not require the removal of all safety precautions taken under the “Release Order” and when the equipment being meggered is not likely to build up a dangerous electric charge, megger tests up to a voltage of 1000 volts are permitted under the “Release Order”, without the need for an “Operating Permit”.
In an aspect, the “Release” on any equipment shall not be issued until (I) visible isolation has been provided to each possible source of energy, (ii) all such isolations have been properly checked and tagged regardless of their position during normal operation (iii) it is safeguarded i.e. grounded and (iv) all safety precautions are taken.
o Reporting Clear: A Release Order is issued to protect personnel at work. The supervisor to whom the Release is issued, when not working or proceeding away from the scene of work, must clear his personnel and report the same even though the work is not completed and the equipment is not available for service. This is to forbid the men from working without supervision or authority during the absence of their supervisor. When equipment is handed over to the working party for the work, it is to be treated as a continuous one and no reporting of clear for temporary short stopping of work is necessary.
No equipment that has been cleared should be energized unless all release notices are collected and cross-checked against the entries on the “Release Order or Orders”.
The working party while giving clear for released equipment shall restore it to the same conditions as it was when the equipment was handed over for work. Any difference in conditions should be brought to the attention of the operating party at the time of giving clear and should request for necessary Caution Order.
o Multiple Releases: A Release is issued to only one person who is responsible for the safety of all personnel working under him/her on the job until he/she reports clearly. If a second person wants to work on the same equipment and cannot work under the first person, he/she must obtain an entirely separate Release in his/her name.
No person may delegate any other person to obtain a Release for him/her or report clear for him/her. A Release is non-transferable. If the holder of the Release desires to leave the work and have it continued by another person, he/she must have a new Release issued to him/her. If the working party is not available and equipment is to be cleared in an emergency, the divisional head/department in charge is authorized to give clarity on behalf of the working party after thorough checking.
Multiple releases shall not be issued for equipment whenever the equipment is released to one working party along with an operating permit.
When multiple releases are issued on equipment it will be the responsibility of the Supervisor of the working party to ensure that the work of one party does not interfere with or endanger the crew of the other party.
Whenever multiple outages at a station are planned it will be the duty of the operating party and the working parties concerned to plan and arrange the timing of the operations in such a manner that the operating party can carry out the sequence of the switching operations for the outages without undue interruptions.
B) Release Notice:
o Purpose and Filling of Tag: Switching operations for the release of equipment usually require placing several tags. If Release Orders only were issued, the amount of writing required would become burdensome, and placing these tags cumbersome. To eliminate these difficulties, an auxiliary miniature tag known as a Release Notice is used at all points except the master control of equipment in a station. The tag requires only the recording of the number of releases, the name of the line or equipment, and the person to whom the release is issued with the dateline.
Cross-Check: Space is provided on the back of the ‘Release Order’ in which the operating party indicates each point to which a ‘Release Notice’ is attached. The number of Release Notices entered on the Release Order must tally with the number of Release Notices removed before the equipment is returned to service.
o Weather Proof Envelopes: Miniature Release notice tags are inserted in fully covered plastic envelopes to make them waterproof for outdoor use and removable. The DANGER sign is prominently displayed on release tags. The same weatherproof Release Notice tag can be used with different miniature tags for different outages. Miniature Release Notice tags alone can be used in crowded locations like control boards, test links, or terminal boxes where the shipping-size Release Notice tags prove too large and unwieldy and have the same significance as the full-sized release notice tag.
o “Men at Work” Notice: At consumer substations, where the tagging system as laid down in this Hand Book cannot be fully implemented and where operations are carried out by consumer operators only, Notices 18” x 12” in size with the following inscriptions shall be used instead of the “Release Notice” Tags.
In an aspect, the board will be pink in color with black lettering.
In an aspect, the “Men at Work” and “Caution” Notices are printed on either side of the same board. The working party should ensure that the correct side of the tag is displayed on the operating handle of the switch.
C) Release Permit:
o Purpose: When a release is issued on equipment at attended stations, a replica in the form of a Release Permit is issued to the person obtaining the Release. It is desirable for the person receiving the Release Permit to accompany the operating party performing the switching operations and check each operation or check the switching done and tags placed before taking over the equipment.
The Release Permit must be signed and turned over to the operating personnel when reporting clearly with appropriate remarks.
o Filling of Permit: The front of the ‘Release Permit’ tag is a duplicate of the front of the Release Order tag and is printed on a thin paper with a gummed edge by which it is attached to the Release Order Tag. The two Tags can be filled out at the same time with carbon paper.
D) Caution Order:
o Purpose: A caution Order tag is used to indicate abnormal conditions such as failure, hazards, relay inoperative, equipment not in service, temporary changes in operating rules, etc. This tag can be placed on either energized or de-energized equipment. This Caution Order tag may be issued either to a person or placed on equipment to designate a particular operating condition.
o Designating Equipment Failure/Defect: Equipment failures/defects are designated by placing Caution Order tags on control switches, valves, etc. until the equipment is taken out for inspection and repairs.
o Designating hazards, cautioning against the operation of switches, disconnects, valves, and pumps (which prohibits the operation of equipment)
At the Generating and Receiving stations, where the operating personnel has to leave the control room and go to the switchyard to open or close disconnects after opening or before closing the circuit breaker, a blank Caution Order tag is placed on the switchboard control of the breaker. This way, the tag not only protects the operating party from the operation of the breaker by another person but also directs attention to the proper control switch upon his/her return.
o Issuing to a Person: The Caution Order may be issued to a person when he/she is working near energized lines or equipment and might incidentally contact or foul the equipment.
While getting a caution order issued, the working party should indicate to the operating party the possible hazards by way of nature of caution and by way of nature of work. The qualified Person shall ensure that all executing Persons must be in his clear sight or direct communication with him at all times till the duration of the job.
For transmission lines with an auto-re-closing facility, when a Caution Order of this nature is issued, the re-closing gear is made inoperative.
It should be clearly understood that A CAUTION ORDER ISSUED TO A PERSON NEITHER AUTHORISES HIM/HER TO OPERATE THE EQUIPMENT NOR DOES IT PROTECT HIM/HER FROM OPERATION OR ENERGISING OF THE EQUIPMENT EXCEPT WHEN AN AUTOMATIC TRIP OUT OCCURS.
o “Caution Notices” at Consumer Substations.
At consumer Substations, where the tagging system as laid down in this Hand Book is not in force and where operations are carried out by consumer operators, “Caution” Notice boards 18 x 12 cm in size with the following inscription are to be used in place of “Caution Order” tags.
E) Operating Permit:
o Purpose: One of the fundamental requirements of operation is that no equipment be operated by any person other than the operating personnel authorized to do so. The operating personnel or any other person is prohibited from operating any equipment upon which persons are working. Both the Release Order and Caution Order forbid this.
Under certain conditions such as relay testing and checking breaker operations etc., the equipment needs to be operated. This tag authorizes such an operation.
An operating permit is also issued to carry out hotline work, meggering above 1 kV, hi-pot-test, current injection or any other test, which is likely to inject or induce high voltage and dangerous electric charge, relay testing, trial tripping of live equipment, machine slip ring grinding, valve operation, trial run of machine and its adjustments after maintenance, operation of valves/gates, test charging of equipment when requested by working party, changing machine brushes in running condition etc.
o Issuing Rule: The Operating Permit may be placed on either energized or de-energized equipment. If used on de-energized equipment, it can be placed either alone or with a Release Order. Equipment to which an Operating Permit is attached may be operated only by or under the personal direction of the person to whom it is issued. But this person is restricted by the rules that no person except the operation personnel may operate the equipment from a switchboard. Only one operating permit will be issued at a time for equipment. If equipment is released to more than one person under separate Release Orders, Operating Permit cannot be issued.
F) Construction Order:
o Purpose: During construction work, there are times when work is being performed on new or removed equipment that is in the vicinity of equipment in operation. Although normal operating rules cannot be applied to such work, it is necessary to designate the equipment under construction to prevent incidental work on the wrong equipment. The tag used for this purpose, known as the Construction Order, is not operating but is intended for use by the construction organization that may not be familiar with the operating safety rules. A Construction Order will not be issued unless the equipment involved is isolated from all possible sources of power by an opening other than normal isolating equipment viz. removing jumpers etc. Also, all control and protection circuits are isolated and links are dropped. This means, for example, that when the final leads are to be connected to a circuit breaker or set of disconnects to a bus, the Construction Order will no longer be valid and a Release Order must be obtained for any further work. The placing of a Construction Order removes the equipment from the normal jurisdiction of the operating organization and permits the construction personnel to work on, move, operate, or energize the equipment at will with the restriction that they may not energize it from the existing system or operate it from a switchboard in service which is likely to lead to undesirable tripping.
o Operating Permit during Construction Work: When equipment is under construction order, there are occasions when hipoting is required. In such cases, an operating permit shall be issued for the high-potential testing activity to the same party to whom the construction order is issued. The hipot activity is permitted only if it does not adversely affect other equipment/task in proximity. Only one such operating permit for a particular hipot can be issued at a time.
In an aspect, the release tags: tagging rules and procedure for equipment and lines:
• As a general rule, all equipment that affects overall power supply reliability in the case of the Mumbai licensed area is within the jurisdiction of the Load Control Centre.
• The Divisions are equipped with lists of equipment conforming to the above operational philosophy.
• No work shall be done on lines or equipment where release is required for the safe conduct of the work until the release has been applied for and lines and equipment released in accordance with the Rules and Procedure outlined.
• During emergencies, the equipment may be taken out by the concerned operating party. Once the equipment is out under emergency and isolated, tags should be prepared and placed before handing over the equipment to the Maintenance Engineer for repairs, inspection, etc.
• The personnel in the tagging list should be thoroughly familiar with the tagging system and plant layout.
• The Authorizing Party must interpret and rigidly enforce rules to keep an accurate record of all orders, checks, and circumstances of all work carried on under the rules and to assist employees and others to interpret and comply with the rules.
• The operation personnel must assist authorizing party in rigidly enforcing rules and keeping an accurate record of all orders, checks, and circumstances of work carried out.
• All circuits and equipment shall be considered ‘life’ until released by the proper authority.
• The Authorizing Party shall require the following information about the outage:
(i) Equipment to be released.
(ii) Nature of work.
(iii) Time and date of commencement of outage.
(iv) Duration of outage.
(v) Names of the person taking over the equipment.
(vi) Time to clear the equipment in an emergency.
(vii) Any special safety precautions are necessary.
• The Authorizing party shall investigate conditions and have those consumers notified whose service will be interfered with and also arrange, wherever possible, alternative feeds to consumers affected. If in his/her judgment the time and date asked for are suitable, Release will be arranged as required. Otherwise, considering the system operating conditions, an alternative time and date will be advised. The program will contain the relevant details. When an outage is arranged at short notice, the information to all the concerned parties will be conveyed on the phone.
• All instructions and messages relating to the operation and switching given over the telephone shall be repeated in full to the sender to ensure that the message has been accurately understood.
• In order to obtain uniformity in safety and tagging procedures, each station will incorporate in its Station Rules, the step-by-step operation to safeguard every station equipment to maintenance work and the tagging scheme to be followed. In abnormal switching operations requiring special tagging, a scheme will be prepared in advance in consultation with the authorizing party.
• To ensure the correct functioning of the tagging system, the placement and removal of tags will remain the sole responsibility of the Operation in charge/representatives. Tags issued to a working party should be handled only by the person for whom it is issued. If any person from the Operating party or from the tagging list for whom equipment is tagged, is observed delegating such authority to others he/she will be liable for disciplinary action. Any unauthorized person, who is observed handling, tampering, or making entries on safety tags, will render himself/herself liable for disciplinary action. In an emergency, if an exception has been made, the Local Authorizing party should be advised without delay.
• At the scheduled time, the station operating party will carry out the necessary switching operations in the proper sequence to de-energize the line or equipment as per operating instructions.
• After opening out the circuit breaker and before operating any disconnects, the operator shall attach a blank Caution Order tag to the breaker switchboard control switch. The operator will then proceed to the circuit breaker and after making visually sure that it is open, will open the disconnects to isolate the equipment and place Release Notices on each of the disconnects (including Transfer Bus disconnects, if any) and other sources of energizing the line or equipment and check by approved methods that the equipment or line is de-energized.
• If the apparatus or line is de-energized, the operator will proceed to ground the apparatus. If a grounding disconnect is provided he shall close the disconnect and attach a Release Notice to its operating lever. If no grounding disconnect is provided, the operator shall request the working party to ground the equipment by means of an approved 3-wire grounding device. The connection to the ground will be made first and that to the line or equipment last. All three phases will be grounded. The use of chains and defective grounding devices is prohibited.
• On returning to the control room, the operator will remove the Caution Order and attach a Release Order to the control switch. He will then report to the authorizing party in detail all the operations that he performed and the tags he placed.
• After receiving reports from all the operators about having placed a “Release Order Number’’ the authorizing party will call the person for whom the equipment is tagged and hand over the line or equipment to him/her.
• In case work is to be carried out within an attended station, a ‘Release Permit’; will be issued to the person for whom the equipment or line is tagged.
• Before starting work, the person for whom the line or equipment is tagged shall check in the presence of another person whether the line or equipment is de-energized and effectively grounded by one or more of the following methods:
(i) Electrically for electrical apparatus such as glow detectors, neon testers voltage indicating devices, etc.
(ii) Visually such as open disconnects, grounds closed and locked whenever applicable, main valves head on the drained-out penstocks, etc.
(iii) By Inspection of Release Order and Release Notice tags.
(iv) By checking with the operator directly. Further, the person in charge of work will be cautious regarding any close clearances, hazards, or unusual conditions known or suspected to exist. The working party, if necessary, may provide additional temporary grounds on the line or equipment, which is released. On placing temporary grounds, care should be taken to make the ground connections first and then the connections to the line or equipment afterward.
• Giving Clear: Before giving clear, the person in charge of work shall make certain that all personnel are clear from the work site, that equipment is in good condition, that all temporary grounds placed by them have been removed and all tools used on the job accounted for. In removing temporary grounds, care should be taken to remove the connection to the line or equipment first and remove the ground connection last. At the time of giving clear, he will specify his Release Number, name of line or equipment, and his name.
• In case a Release Permit has been issued to the person in charge of work, the reverse side of the permit will be filled and returned to the operating party. If there is any difference in condition it should be brought to the attention of the operating party at the time of giving clear and necessary ‘caution order’ issued.
• On receiving clearance, the authority as specified in the operating instructions, will have the grounds removed and ask the station to remove the Release Number for which the clearance is received after removing the Release Notices, the Release Order will be removed from the main control point.
• If there is more than one Release Notice attached to any control point, only that Release Notice will be removed which corresponds to the Release Number and person from whom clearance has been received.
• After removing the Release Order, the Operator shall enter thereupon the name of the person who removed the tag and the authority that ordered it to be removed along with the date and time.
• After all Release Orders attached to the main control point have been removed, the equipment will be taken into service as specified in the operating instructions.
Rules Pertaining to The use of an Operating Permit (Green Tag)
• Whenever any person wants to carry out tests on any equipment, like meggering, hipot test, current injection test, or any other test which is likely to inject or induce high voltage and dangerous electric charge, relay testing or trial tripping of energized or de-energized equipment like circuit breakers, valve operations, the trial run of the machine and its adjustments, operation of valves/gates, etc. he/she shall apply for an operating Permit for the equipment to the authorizing party under whose control the equipment may be situated.
• The person required to carry out the tests shall furnish the following information when making an application:
(a) Name of the equipment
(b) Exact nature of tests proposed to be carried out
(c) Whether equipment is required to be de-coupled, made dead, and grounded before carrying out the tests
(d) Time at which tests are proposed to be carried out and duration.
• Authorizing party shall investigate conditions, and if, in his/her judgment, such tests may be carried out, permission will be granted.
• If the apparatus is required to be made dead and grounded while carrying out the tests, it will be necessary to obtain Release Order also in addition to the Operating Permit.
• When the Operating Permit alone is issued to the person, the equipment shall be considered live equipment & no work except testing/trial operation shall be done or allowed to be done on the equipment.
• The person to whom the Operating Permit is issued shall be responsible for the safety of the personnel working under him/her.
• Equipment, issued under an Operating Permit, is under orders of the person for whom it is tagged and may be energized or de-energized as per his/her directives only.
• An operating Permit shall never be issued to a party if a release for the same equipment is already issued to another party or vice versa.
• After the testing is completed, the person to whom Operating Permit has been issued shall report clearly to the operating party. The tags will be removed then and the equipment returned to normal service. If the equipment is de-energized grounded and covered by a Release Order, grounds will be removed and necessary switching operations carried out to take the equipment into service as per operating instructions.
Figures 3A-3I illustrate a diagram for assigning a tag card in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure and Figure 3J illustrates a diagram of the tag after being assigned. Figure 3A shows the navigation of options available for the use of the user. Figure 3B shows the list of tags that are unassigned and available for assignment. Figure 3C shows Tag ID/No. Figure 3D shows the selection of the tag which is to be allotted for the isolated equipment. The selection tag includes the details of tag_id, assigned by, permit type, name, and date and time. Figure 3E shows the selection of the cause number for which tag cards are to be assigned by the assigner. Once the cause number is selected, Figure 3F shows the line/equipment details extracted from the repository, and click the option “Assign” to initiate the assigning process. Figure 3G shows the details of the location of the equipment and desired details. Figure 3H shows the notification dialog box to prompt the assignee to proceed with the message “Do you want the assign the tag plate (cards)” by clicking the option “YES”. Figure 3I shows the tag cards assigned to the name/ employee ID 207117 by the assignee 207770 and the status of the tag card is updated as “assigned”. Once the tag card is assigned, the equipment details are extracted in application 104 and visible in a mobile view as shown in Figure 3J.
Figures 4A-4C illustrate a diagram for the handover of a tag card in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure and Figure 4D illustrates a diagram of the tag after handed over. Figure 4A shows the tag card containing all details related to tag_id further the tag cards containing job_id may be assigned to the other employee by selecting the option “Hand Over” and proceeding for the handover tag cards (plate) as shown in Figure 4B. Figure 4C shows the Tag card containing job_id to be handed over to another employee. Figure 4D shows the updated tag card after handing over the tag cards having job_id.
Figures 5A-5C illustrate a diagram for a takeover of a tag card in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure and Figure 5D illustrates a diagram of the tag after taking over. Figure 5A shows the tag card containing all details related to tag_id which is handed over and further, the tag cards containing job_id may be taken over by the other employee. The option “Take Over” is selected to proceed. Figure 5B shows the notification dialog box for continuing the takeover tag card (plate). Figure 5C shows the tag card containing job_id to be taken over to another employee. Figure 5D shows the updated tag card after taking over the tag cards having job_id.
Figures 6A-6C illustrate a diagram for the closure of a tag card in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure and Figure 6D illustrates a diagram of the tag after closure. Figure 6A shows the tag card containing all details related to tag_id which is taken over and further, the completed tag cards need to be closed by selecting the option “closure” is selected to proceed. Figure 6B shows the details of the tag card. Figure 6C shows the notification dialog box for continuing the closure of tag cards (plate). Figure 6D shows the updated tag card after closing the tag cards having job_id.
Figure 7A and Figure 7B illustrate a diagram of isolated equipment with a digital tagging system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 7A and Figure 7B show the tag cards and lock applied to the equipment.
Figure 8A and Figure 8B illustrate a QR-based tag card and digital mobile interface of a tag card in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 8A shows the Tag cards (plate) shows the QR code by which the details of the tag cards are retrieved from the repository. Further Figure 8B shows the relevant information extracted by scanning the QR code and accessing the information in the application 104.
In an operative configuration, the digital tagging system comprises a plurality of tag cards 102 embedded with digital codes. The server 104 is implementing a web-based platform accessible by an application 106. The repository 104a is configured to store details of tag cards, details of isolation points 110 with locations, employee details, details of outage schedules, details of annual maintenance schedule (AMS), details of order list, a set of assigning rules, a set of handover rules, a set of takeover rules, and a set of closure rules. The scheduler module 104b is configured to receive the annual maintenance schedule (AMS) from the repository 104a and schedule an outage for the annual maintenance schedule (AMS) of equipment by an issuing person and is further configured to assign isolation points 110 with locations to at least one equipment, wherein tag cards 102 are attached to each equipment and stored the tag cards 102 in the order listed in the repository 104a.
The assignee module 104c is configured to cooperate with the scheduler module 104b to receive the order list from the repository 104a and select at least one tag from the order list to validate the details of the tags and further configured to assign the tags to at least one employee by means of the set of assigning rules. The handover module 104d is configured to cooperate with the assignee module 104c to receive the assigned tags to validate the assigned tags and handover to another employee by means of the set of handover rules and update the tag with handover details which include details of tag handover by employee and tag handover on a date with time. The takeover module 104e is configured to cooperate with the handover module 104d to receive the handover tags to validate the handover tags and takeover by another employee by means of the set of takeover rules and update the tag with takeover details which include details of tag takeover by employee and tag takeover on a date with time. The closure module 104f is configured to cooperate with the assignee module 104c, the handover module 104d, and the takeover module 104e to receive either the assigned tags or the handover tags, or the takeover tags to validate the tags and close the tags by means of the set of closure rules and update the tag with closure details which include details of the tag closed on a date with time wherein the closed tags indicate the completion of a task.
The scanner device 108 is configured to cooperate with the application 106 to scan the tag cards 102 embedded with digital codes to retrieve the tag details and the current status of the tags 102, wherein the details of the tags include tag handover by, tag handover on, tag takeover by, tag takeover on, and a date with time.
The foregoing description of the embodiments has been provided for purposes of illustration and is not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. Individual components of a particular embodiment are generally not limited to that particular embodiment, but, are interchangeable. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the present disclosure, and all such modifications are considered to be within the scope of the present disclosure.
TECHNICAL ADVANCEMENTS
The present disclosure described herein above has several technical advantages including, but not limited to, the realization of a digital tagging system and a method thereof that:
• are easy to operate and install;
• tag cards used multiple times,
• have reduced cost and waste,
• easy to integrate,
• require no investment,
• protect personnel at work under all conditions,
• protect equipment from damage,
• designate abnormal conditions,
• digital recording of records,
• provide real-time updates,
• used for both lockout and tagout,
• worked in a variety of conditions including extreme weather
• reduces the chances of miscommunication or errors, and
• avoid manual intervention.
The embodiments herein and the various features and advantageous details thereof are explained concerning the non-limiting embodiments in the following description. Descriptions of well-known components and processing techniques are omitted so as to not unnecessarily obscure the embodiments herein. The examples used herein are intended merely to facilitate an understanding of ways in which the embodiments herein may be practiced and to further enable those of skill in the art to practice the embodiments herein. Accordingly, the examples should not be construed as limiting the scope of the embodiments herein.
The foregoing description of the specific embodiments so fully reveals the general nature of the embodiments herein that others can, by applying current knowledge, readily modify and/or adapt for various applications such specific embodiments without departing from the generic concept, and, therefore, such adaptations and modifications should and are intended to be comprehended within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed embodiments. It is to be understood that the phraseology or terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation. Therefore, while the embodiments herein have been described in terms of preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that the embodiments herein can be practiced with modification within the spirit and scope of the embodiments as described herein.
The use of the expression “at least” or “at least one” suggests the use of one or more elements or ingredients or quantities, as the use may be in the embodiment of the disclosure to achieve one or more of the desired objects or results.
While considerable emphasis has been placed herein on the components and parts of the preferred embodiments, it will be appreciated that many embodiments can be made and that many changes can be made in the preferred embodiments without departing from the principles of the disclosure. These and other changes in the preferred embodiment as well as other embodiments of the disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the disclosure herein, whereby it is to be distinctly understood that the foregoing descriptive matter is to be interpreted merely as illustrative of the disclosure and not as a limitation.
, Claims:WE CLAIM:
1. A digital tagging system (100), said system (100) comprising:
• a plurality of tag cards (102) embedded with digital codes;
• a server (104) implementing a web-based platform accessible by an application (106), said server (104) comprising:
i. a repository (104a) configured to store details of tag cards, details of isolation points with locations, employee details, details of outage schedules, details of annual maintenance schedule (AMS), details of order list, a set of assigning rules, a set of handover rules, a set of takeover rules, and a set of closure rules;
ii. a scheduler module (104b) configured to receive said annual maintenance schedule (AMS) from said repository (104a) and schedule an outage for said annual maintenance schedule (AMS) of equipment by an issuing person and further configured to assign isolation points (110) with locations to said at least one equipment, wherein said tag cards (102) are attached to each equipment and stored said tag cards (102) in the order listed in said repository (104a);
iii. an assignee module (104c) configured to cooperate with said scheduler module (104b) to receive said order list from said repository (104a) and select said at least one tag from said order list to validate said details of the tags, and further configured to assign said tags to at least one employee by means of said set of assigning rules;
iv. a handover module (104d) configured to cooperate with said assignee module (104c) to receive said assigned tags to validate the assigned tags and handover said tag to another employee by means of said set of handover rules and update said tag with handover details which includes details of tag handover by employee and tag handover on a date with time;
v. a takeover module (104e) configured to cooperate with said handover module (104d) to receive said handover tags to validate the handover tags and takeover said tag by another employee by means of said set of takeover rules and update said tag with takeover details which includes details of tag takeover by employee and tag takeover on a date with time;
vi. a closure module (104f) configured to cooperate with said assignee module (104c), said handover module (104d), and said takeover module (104e) to receive either said assigned tags or said handover tags or said takeover tags to validate said tags and close said tags by means of said set of closure rules and update said tag with closure details which includes details of tag closed on a date with time, wherein said closed tags indicate the completion of a task; and
• a scanner device (108) configured to cooperate with said application (106) to scan said tag cards (102) embedded with digital codes to retrieve said details of the tags and the current status of said tags (102), wherein said tags details include tag handover by, tag handover on, tag takeover by, tag takeover on, and a date with time, and
wherein said plurality of tag cards (102), said scheduler module (104b), said assignee module (104c), said handover module (104d), said takeover module (104e), said closure module (104f), said application (106) and said scanner device (108) are executed by one or more microprocessors.
2. The digital tagging system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said application (106) provides tag details that include notifications, work orders, permit lists, isolation lists, tags, inspection, MIS, utilities, alert logs, user logs, send messages, and settings.
3. The digital tagging system (100) as claimed in claim 2, wherein said permit lists provide a list of all active and completed lists for filling, operating, issuing, and releasing permits, permit issuer, and permit acceptor.
4. The digital tagging system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said tag cards (102) are selected from a group of release tags having types of tags containing a release order, a release notice, an operating permit, a caution order, and a construction order.
5. The digital tagging system (100) as claimed in claim 4, wherein said tag cards (102) are in different colors to represent said types of tags.
6. The digital tagging system (100) as claimed in claim 4, wherein said tag cards (102) are issued by issuing person in charge for each said isolation point in coordination with a Power System Control Centre (PSCC).
7. The digital tagging system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said tag cards (102) are placed and removed by an operating person in charge.
8. The digital tagging system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said tag cards (102) are released or closed after the completion of work or equipment is cleared for service.
9. The digital tagging system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein locks (112) are placed at said isolation points (110) with said tag cards (102).
10. The digital tagging system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said locks (112) are placed and removed by both the permit issuer and permit acceptor.
11. The digital tagging system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said tags include a job_id, a tag type, tag current state of job, tag assigned by, tag permit type, name of employee or id of the employee, tag handover by, tag handover on, tag takeover by, tag takeover on, and a date with time.
12. The digital tagging system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said tag information is extracted by scanning said digital code which is present on said tag cards (102).
13. The digital tagging system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said tags are assigned or reassigned or unassigned or handover, or takeover in accordance with the work orders.
14. The digital tagging system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said digital code is a virtual code, Quick Response (QR) code, Bar code, code word, passcode, a two-dimensional barcode, or any graphical code which is scanned by a scanner.
15. The digital tagging system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said system (100) applies to electrical and mechanical equipment (114).
16. The digital tagging system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said isolation points (110) are determined by identifying a list of locations.
17. The digital tagging system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said system performs an operation which includes step-by-step safeguard of every station equipment to maintenance work, tagging scheme, nature and scope of the work, the safety precautions, abnormal switching operation requiring special tagging, a scheme preparation in advance in consultation with the authorized person.
18. The digital tagging system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said set of assigning rules assign isolation points (110) by determining a type of equipment, location of equipment, currents, and timeline of the annual maintenance schedule (AMS).
19. The digital tagging system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said set of handover rules validate the assigned tags and check for available employees for allotment of said tags.
20. The digital tagging system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said set of takeover rules validate the handover tags and check for available employees for allotment of said takeover tags.
21. The digital tagging system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said set of closure rules validates the takeover tags and closes the tags for reassignments.
22. The digital tagging system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said application (106) is configured to check the details of the tags in real time.
23. The digital tagging system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said scanner device (108) is selected from a group consisting of QR code scanner devices, mobile devices, scanner machines, optical scanning devices, and smartphones.
24. The digital tagging system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said closure module (104f) can close said assigned tags or said handover tags, or said takeover tags individually or collectively in real-time.
25. A method (200) for digital tagging, said method (200) comprises the following steps:
• receiving, by a scheduler module (104b), said annual maintenance schedule (AMS) from said repository (104a);
• scheduling, by said scheduler module (104b), an outage for said annual maintenance schedule (AMS) of equipment by an authorizing person;
• assigning, by said scheduler module (104b), isolation points (110) with locations to said at least one equipment, wherein said tag cards (102) are attached to each equipment and stored said tag cards (102) in the order listed in said repository (104a);
• receiving, by an assignee module (104c), said order list from said repository (104a);
• selecting, by said assignee module (104c), said at least one tag from said order list;
• validating, by said assignee module (104c), said details of the tags,
• assigning, by said assignee module (104c), said tags to at least one employee by means of said set of assigning rules;
• receiving, by a handover module (104d), said assigned tags;
• validating, by said handover module (104d), the assigned tags to handover said tag to another employee by means of said set of handover rules;
• updating, by said handover module (104d), said tag with handover details which includes details of tag handover by employee and tag handover on a date with time;
• receiving, by a takeover module (104e), said handover tags;
• validating, by said takeover module (104e), the handover tags to takeover said tag to another employee by means of said set of takeover rules;
• updating, by takeover module (104e), said tag with takeover details which includes details of tag takeover by employee and tag takeover on a date with time;
• receiving, by a closure module (104f), either said assigned tags or said handover tags, or said takeover tags;
• validating, by said closure module (104f), said tags;
• closing, by said closure module (104f), said tags for service by means of said set of closure rules, wherein said closed tags indicate the completion of a task;
• updating, by said closure module (104f), said tag with closure details which includes details of tag closed on a date with time; and
• scanning, by a scanner device (108), said digital codes of said tag cards (102) to retrieve said the details of the tags and the current status of said tags (102), wherein said tags details include tag handover by, tag handover on, tag takeover by, tag takeover on, and a date with time.

Dated this 23rd day of June, 2023

_______________________________
MOHAN RAJKUMAR DEWAN, IN/PA – 25
of R.K.DEWAN & CO.
Authorized Agent of Applicant