In any industrial setting, safety is paramount, especially when workers are exposed to potentially hazardous energy during maintenance or repair operations. One of the most critical safety protocols used to mitigate these risks is the Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) system. This procedure is designed to ensure that machines or equipment are properly shut off and cannot be accidentally turned on or energized while workers are performing maintenance tasks.
What is Lockout Tagout? Lockout/Tagout refers to a set of safety procedures implemented in workplaces to control hazardous energy sources. These sources can include electricity, mechanical forces, hydraulic pressure, and others. The LOTO process involves isolating these energy sources through a combination of lockout devices and tagout devices, which prevent the unintended release of energy that could lead to worker injuries. Lockout： This is the physical action of locking the energy-isolating device (e.g., a valve, breaker, or switch) in the “off” position, preventing it from being operated.