What does "lockout/tagout" (LOTO) procedures ensure?

Lockout/tagout (LOTO) procedures are critical safety protocols used to ensure that machinery is properly shut off and cannot be started again until maintenance or repair work is fully completed. This process involves isolating a machine from its energy source and placing a lockout device on the energy-isolating mechanism. It is an essential step to protect maintenance workers from accidental machine activation, which can lead to serious injuries or even fatalities.

By requiring that machinery is shut off and secured with a lockout/tagout procedure, the potential for unexpected energization or start-up is eliminated, thereby providing a safer working environment. The proper implementation of LOTO not only adheres to safety regulations but also builds a culture of safety within an organization, ensuring employees can perform their tasks without the risk of being harmed by machines that could unexpectedly operate.