In industrial settings, the safety of workers is paramount. One of the essential safety protocols employed to protect workers during maintenance and repair operations is Lock Out Tag Out (LOTO). This procedure plays a crucial role in preventing unexpected machine start-up or the accidental release of hazardous energy while workers are performing their jobs. Understanding Lock Out Tag Out, its purpose, steps, and importance can help organizations foster a safer work environment.

What is Lock Out Tag Out? Lock Out Tag Out is a safety procedure used to ensure that hazardous machines and equipment are properly shut off and unable to be started up again before maintenance or servicing is completed. The term “lockout” refers to the practice of physically locking energy-isolating devices in a safe position, while “tagout” involves placing a prominent warning tag on the equipment to inform others that maintenance is taking place and that they should not operate the equipment. Together, these practices help prevent injurious accidents that could occur if machinery were to be inadvertently energized.