Safety is a top priority in any workplace, especially in industries where workers interact with hazardous machinery or equipment. One critical safety measure designed to protect workers from injury during maintenance or repair activities is the Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) procedure. This practice ensures that energy sources are effectively isolated, and machinery cannot be inadvertently activated during servicing. In this article, we will explore the importance of Safety Lockout Tagout, its key elements, and its role in preventing workplace accidents.

What is Safety Lockout Tagout (LOTO)? Lockout/Tagout refers to the set of procedures used to prevent the accidental release of hazardous energy during maintenance or repair work. The “Lockout” part involves physically locking out energy-isolating devices to prevent the equipment from being turned on, while “Tagout” involves placing warning tags on the equipment, signaling to others that maintenance is in progress and the machine should not be operated. LOTO is a critical safety standard widely adopted in industries such as manufacturing, construction, chemical processing, and energy. The primary goal is to ensure the safety of workers who might be exposed to dangerous energy sources, such as electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, or chemical energy, during repair or maintenance work.