Electrical equipment lockouts are crucial safety measures implemented in industrial workplaces to prevent accidents, injuries, and fatalities during maintenance or repair work. Lockout/tagout (LOTO) procedures are designed to ensure that electrical equipment and machinery are completely de-energized before workers interact with them. This article explores the importance, procedures, and legal requirements associated with electrical equipment lockouts, emphasizing their role in protecting workers and enhancing workplace safety.

What are Electrical Equipment Lockouts? Electrical equipment lockouts refer to a safety process where specific mechanisms, such as locks and tags, are used to isolate and disable electrical equipment to prevent accidental activation or energy release. This procedure is essential when maintenance, inspection, or repair work is required on machinery or electrical systems. By ensuring that all energy sources are securely locked out, lockout/tagout practices minimize the risk of electrical shock, burns, fires, and other electrical-related accidents. The Lockout/Tagout Process The lockout/tagout process consists of a series of steps that must be followed carefully to guarantee the safety of personnel working on or near electrical equipment. These steps are：