Valve Lockout Tagout (LOTO) is a crucial safety practice used in various industries to protect workers from the dangers associated with the unexpected release of hazardous energy during maintenance or repair work. This safety procedure involves physically locking the valve or equipment in an “off” position and placing a visible tag that warns others not to operate or interfere with the equipment. Its significance extends beyond simple compliance; it is a key element in creating a safe working environment.

What is Valve Lockout Tagout? At its core, Valve Lockout Tagout is a set of protocols designed to prevent accidents and injuries caused by the unintended operation of machinery, equipment, or valves during maintenance. In the context of valves, it is used to ensure that a valve controlling the flow of hazardous materials—whether gas, liquid, or energy—remains in a safe position while maintenance work is being performed. The lockout refers to using a lock to secure the valve or control mechanism, while the tagout involves attaching a warning tag that alerts others that the equipment is under maintenance and should not be operated.