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Having a lockout / tagout (LOTO) program is an OSHA requirement for controlling hazardous energy (electrical energy, mechanical energy, hydraulic energy, pneumatic energy, etc.) in the workplace. An effective LOTO program for electrical energy utilizes physical locks and tags that workers attach to equipment before working on a machine. This lets others know the machine has been de-energized and should not be turned back on.
When someone is performing maintenance or servicing a machine, de-energizing it will eliminate the majority of electrical hazards. Controlling that hazardous energy helps to keep workers safe and reduces the risk of arc flash. It is important workers understand the proper lockout / tagout procedures:
- Identify all sources of power.
- Shut down equipment and disconnect power sources.
- Attach locks and tags to ensure sources are kept disconnected.
- Confirm the equipment has been completely de-energized.
Did you know LOTO is consistently one of OSHA’s most violated standards? If you have a LOTO program in your facility, what efforts have you had to make to keep the program compliant? Share your experiences below!
Lockout / Tagout is a vital safety procedure that is implemented to help keep people safe from various threats such as chemical, hydraulic, thermal, electrical, mechanical, or pneumatic types of energy when a machine or piece of equipment is being repaired or maintained. Basically, the equipment must be deemed inoperable and be properly shut-down in order to safely conduct the needed repair or maintenance. There are essential steps that must be followed in the lockout / tagout process to ensure that safety is first and foremost.
These are the 6 steps of loto:
- Preparation
- Shutdown
- Isolation
- Lockout / tagout
- Stored energy check
- Isolation Verification
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