In any industrial setting, the safety of workers is paramount. One of the most crucial safety procedures to ensure that workers remain safe while maintaining or servicing machinery is the Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) procedure. LOTO tags are a key element in this safety protocol, and their proper use can prevent a wide variety of workplace accidents. This article explores the importance of LOTO tags, their role in safeguarding employees, and how businesses can effectively implement LOTO practices to comply with safety regulations.
What is LOTO? Lockout/Tagout refers to a safety procedure used to ensure that machinery or equipment is properly shut off and cannot be started up again before maintenance or repairs are completed. The “lockout” part involves physically locking off a piece of equipment with a lock to prevent accidental start-up, while the “tagout” involves attaching a tag to the equipment to indicate that it has been locked out for maintenance. LOTO tags are a critical part of this system as they serve as visible warnings to all workers that the machinery or equipment is not to be operated. The Role of LOTO Tags