In industrial and commercial environments, electrical systems are critical to the functioning of machinery, tools, and devices. However, the risk of electrical accidents during maintenance or repair work is a significant concern for employers and employees alike. One of the most effective safety programs to mitigate such risks is the Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) Electrical Safety procedure. LOTO is a set of practices designed to ensure that energy sources are isolated and de-energized while maintenance or repair work is being carried out, thereby protecting workers from hazardous situations such as accidental machine startup or electrical shock.

What is LOTO Electrical Safety? The Lockout/Tagout safety procedure involves two main components： locking and tagging. Lockout refers to physically isolating and securing energy sources, while tagout involves placing a warning tag on equipment to inform others that it should not be operated. This system is primarily used in environments where workers may need to service or maintain equipment that is connected to electrical, hydraulic, or pneumatic systems, making it essential for ensuring worker safety during these operations. The goal of LOTO electrical safety is to prevent the unexpected release of energy, which could lead to severe injuries, fatalities, or property damage. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), the LOTO standard applies to any job that requires the servicing or maintenance of equipment where the unexpected energization of the equipment could result in injury.