Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) safety procedures are essential in ensuring the protection of workers who deal with dangerous machinery, equipment, or hazardous energy sources. LOTO stands for “Lockout” and “Tagout,” two practices that prevent the accidental release of energy while employees are performing maintenance or service on machinery. These procedures are critical in reducing workplace accidents, especially those caused by unexpected equipment startup or the release of stored energy.

What is LOTO Safety? LOTO safety refers to a set of established protocols designed to protect workers from being injured by hazardous energy sources. The term “hazardous energy” can encompass mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, chemical, thermal, or other energy types that could pose a risk to workers during maintenance activities. The primary goal of LOTO procedures is to ensure that a machine or equipment is completely de-energized and cannot be activated while maintenance or repair work is being conducted. The LOTO process typically involves two key elements： locking out and tagging out. Locking out involves the physical locking of an energy-isolating device, such as a valve, circuit breaker, or switch, to prevent the uncontrolled release of energy. Tagging out involves placing a visible warning tag on the locked device, alerting workers that the equipment is being serviced and should not be operated.