In industrial settings, ensuring the safety of workers during maintenance and repair activities is of utmost importance. One of the most effective methods to achieve this is through the use of Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) equipment. This safety procedure is designed to protect workers from the dangers of machinery or equipment unexpectedly starting up or releasing hazardous energy during maintenance work. Lockout/Tagout equipment plays a crucial role in preventing workplace injuries and fatalities by providing a systematic approach to energy control.

What is Lockout/Tagout? Lockout/Tagout is a safety procedure that involves placing physical locks and warning tags on energy-isolating devices to prevent the accidental release of hazardous energy during maintenance or repair activities. The procedure ensures that all energy sources are fully isolated and cannot be accidentally re-energized until maintenance work is complete and safe to proceed. The core concept of LOTO is to control the energy sources of machines and equipment. Energy sources can be electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, thermal, or even gravitational. Each energy source must be properly isolated before work can begin, and the equipment must remain in a safe state until the work is completed.