Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) is a critical safety procedure used in various industries, particularly during maintenance and repair work, to ensure the protection of workers from the unexpected release of hazardous energy. This safety practice involves the use of locks and tags to prevent the accidental startup of machines and equipment while maintenance activities are being performed. This article will delve into the significance of lock out tags, the lockout/tagout procedure, and how businesses can implement and benefit from this essential safety protocol.
The Purpose of Lock Out Tags Lockout tags are a key component of the Lockout/Tagout safety protocol. The primary purpose of a lockout tag is to visually communicate that a machine or equipment is in a locked-out state, and therefore, it should not be operated or energized. These tags serve as a warning to anyone who might be interacting with the equipment that it is currently being serviced or is in a potentially dangerous state. The tag itself typically includes essential information, such as the name of the person performing the maintenance, the reason for the lockout, and the date and time it was applied.