In industrial and manufacturing environments, safety is paramount. One critical component of workplace safety is the use of equipment lockout tags, which are part of a comprehensive lockout/tagout (LOTO) program. These tags play a vital role in preventing accidents during maintenance and servicing by ensuring that machinery and equipment remain in a safe and de-energized state. In this article, we will explore the significance of equipment lockout tags, how they work, and their role in promoting a secure working environment.

What Are Equipment Lockout Tags? Equipment lockout tags are warning labels used in conjunction with lockout devices to communicate that specific equipment is being serviced and should not be operated. These tags are typically attached to the energy-isolating devices (such as electrical switches, valves, and mechanical locks) to prevent the equipment from being inadvertently activated while workers are performing maintenance or repairs. Lockout tags are often brightly colored, with bold text that conveys important safety messages like “Do Not Operate,” “Under Maintenance,” or “Danger – Authorized Personnel Only.” The tags may also include spaces for additional information such as the name of the person responsible for the maintenance, the date, and the expected duration of the service.