Safety in the workplace is of paramount importance, particularly in industries where employees work with heavy machinery, electrical systems, and hazardous energy sources. One critical safety practice that ensures the well-being of workers is Safety Lockout Tagout (LOTO). This procedure, when properly implemented, can prevent accidents, injuries, and even fatalities by controlling hazardous energy during maintenance, repairs, or servicing of equipment. This article delves into what LOTO is, how it works, and why it is essential for workplace safety.

What is Lockout/Tagout (LOTO)? Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) is a safety procedure used to prevent the accidental release of hazardous energy during the maintenance, repair, or servicing of equipment and machinery. The term is split into two key components： Lockout： This involves physically locking out energy-isolating devices, such as circuit breakers, valves, or electrical switches, with a lock. The lock prevents the device from being accidentally turned on or activated. Tagout： Along with the lock, a tag is placed on the energy-isolating device. The tag acts as a warning, alerting others that the equipment is being worked on and should not be operated.