What Is Lockout/Tagout?

Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) is a critical safety procedure used to ensure that machines and equipment are properly shut off and not able to be started up again before maintenance or repair work is completed. It protects workers from the sudden release of hazardous energy.

Common Energy Hazards

• Electrical energy (live wires, control panels).
• Mechanical motion (moving gears, blades, conveyors).
• Hydraulic or pneumatic pressure in hoses or cylinders.
• Stored energy in springs or elevated machine parts.
• Thermal energy—heat, steam, or hot fluids.

LOTO Procedure Steps

• Notify all affected employees of the shutdown.
• Shut down the machine or equipment using normal procedures.
• Isolate all energy sources (switches, valves, breakers).
• Apply lockout devices and clearly labeled tagout tags.
• Release stored energy and verify zero-energy state.
• Test operation controls to ensure machine will not start.