Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) protects workers by keeping equipment off and still. Injuries, amputations, and even deaths occur when machine parts or equipment suddenly turns on or releases stored energy during maintenance. Lockout/Tagout covers the procedures, equipment, and training necessary to allow workers to safely maintain or repair machines and equipment.
Before you can create a plan to protect workers you need to do an inventory to identify the hazardous energies in your machinery and equipment. Start by creating a list of machinery and equipment and document all the potential energy sources. We have provided sample procedure that you can use to document your energy control requirements available under the resources tab. Lock out/tag out is not limited to only electrical equipment. Other common forms of energy are pressurized water, steam, heat, hydraulic equipment like forklifts, etc.