Lock Out/Tag Out: A Critical Component of Workplace Safety

Implementing lockout tagout (LOTO) procedures is crucial due to the significant workplace hazard posed by the release of hazardous energy during maintenance or repair work on machinery or equipment. Failure to follow proper safety protocols in such situations can lead to severe injuries or fatalities. 

Proper LOTO practices prevent severe injuries or fatalities by locking, tagging, and isolating equipment from energy sources. This protects workers from accidents and reduces the need for costly repairs, and extends equipment lifespan.

What is Lock Out/Tag Out (LOTO)?

Lockout tagout (LOTO) is a safety system that prevents accidental exposure to hazardous energy from machinery and equipment. A lockout device, such as a padlock, Thermoplastic Safety Padlocks, or Solid Aluminum Padlocks, physically secures the energy-isolating mechanism. While a tagout device, like a tag, alerts employees not to operate the equipment. 

Who is responsible for Lock Out/Tag Out?

Key figures involved in lockout/tagout procedures include:

• Employers: Employers are responsible for developing, implementing, and enforcing a safety lockout program that meets OSHA standards and is tailored to the specific needs of their workplace and equipment. 
• Authorized employees: These individuals lock or tag equipment to ensure it can be safely serviced or maintained.
• Affected employees: This group is trained to operate the equipment undergoing servicing or works in the area where the servicing occurs.

Each person plays a part in ensuring worker safety during equipment servicing and maintenance through lockout/tagout procedures.

Why is LockOut/Tagout important?

Failure to control hazardous energy can have dire consequences, emphasizing the importance of compliance with LOTO standards. Annually, adherence to these standards prevents an estimated 120 fatalities and 50,000 injuries, according to OSHA, underscoring the critical need for thorough energy control programs, regular inspections, and comprehensive worker training on LOTO procedures and OSHA standards.

Implementing lockout tagout (LOTO) procedures is essential for protecting workers during machinery maintenance by preventing accidents from hazardous energy. LOTO involves using lockout devices to secure energy sources and tagout devices to warn against equipment operation, ensuring safety and reducing injuries. Compliance with OSHA standards prevents fatalities and injuries, emphasizing the need for thorough energy control programs and worker training in LOTO procedures.