Lockout/Tagout: What to Know
April 25, 2018
Working with machines and energy sources can be dangerous and requires authorized employees to perform Lockout/Tagout procedures. The term Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) refers to safety procedures ensuring the proper shut-off of machines and energy sources. Further, LOTO ensures equipment remains powered off until the completion of the maintenance or service work.
The following lists includes some common types of hazardous energy:
- Electrical
- Thermal
- Gravitational
- Chemical
- Stored
- Motion
- Hydraulic
- Pneumatic
Improper use of equipment or an absence of proper LOTO procedures can lead to burns, cuts, amputations, fractures, electrocutions, or chemical exposures. Machine-specific LOTO procedures identify hazards that may injure or kill employees due to the startup or release of stored energy during the maintenance of equipment. LOTO procedures should be posted on equipment, and training must be performed for both authorized and affected employees . Authorized employees include individuals with access to locks or other devices used in LOTO procedures. Affected employees include personnel affected by the shutdown.
Six steps should be followed when locking out a piece of equipment:
- Notify all affected employees.
- Conduct normal shutdown.
- Place all controls in the off position, and close all control valves.
- Install LOTO devices
- Release stored energy.
- Verify isolation.
When ready to release equipment from LOTO after completion of maintenance or servicing work, the following three procedures must be followed:
- Inspect the work area for parts, tools and missing machine guards. Ensure equipment is ready to operate.
- Notify all individuals prior to equipment restart to ensure clearance.
- Remove all locks and tags from the equipment. Employees should remove only their applied lock and tag.
Finally, remember three simple rules pertaining to LOTO:
- Know the equipment.
- Know and understand the energy sources.
- Use proper LOTO procedures EVERY TIME! LOTO procedures keep individuals safe from injury and properly maintain equipment.