Safety is a top priority in any workplace, especially in environments where machinery, electrical systems, or hazardous processes are involved. One of the most effective safety protocols in industrial settings is the Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) system. This safety procedure aims to protect workers from the dangers posed by the unexpected release of hazardous energy during equipment maintenance or repair. This article delves into the importance of LOTO, its key components, and how it significantly reduces the risk of workplace accidents.

What is Safety Lockout/Tagout? Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) refers to a set of safety procedures used to ensure that dangerous machines or equipment are properly shut off and cannot be accidentally started up or energized during maintenance or servicing. The primary objective is to protect workers from the potential risks of hazardous energy sources such as electricity, mechanical energy, thermal energy, and hydraulic energy. The LOTO procedure involves two main steps： Lockout： Physically locking the energy-isolating devices (e.g., switches, valves, or circuit breakers) to prevent accidental re-energization.