Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) is a crucial safety procedure that involves authorized employees meticulously preparing, isolating, locking, dissipating stored energy, and verifying the equipment is at a zero-energy state. This process is imperative to ensure that machines and equipment are safely de-energized before maintenance or service work begins.
Injuries from a failure to control hazardous energy can be fatal, including electrocution, burns, crushing, cutting, or even amputation.
The OSHA standard for The Control of Hazardous Energy (29 CFR 1910.147) mandates that employers establish a program and utilize procedures to protect employees from a variety of hazardous energy sources. These sources include electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, chemical, thermal, and gravitational energy. Injuries from a failure to properly control this energy can be severe, ranging from electrocution and crushing to lacerations, burns, and amputation, highlighting the immense importance of a robust Lockout/Tagout program.
Pinnacol Assurance provides the resources and guidance you need to properly implement a Lockout/Tagout program, helping you protect your employees and ensure they are safe from the unexpected startup or release of stored energy.
Every effective Lockout/Tagout program starts with a detailed, written plan. This blueprint outlines the specific steps for controlling hazardous energy for each piece of equipment. It ensures everyone understands and follows the same safety procedures every time.
The Lockout/Tagout procedure is a strict sequence of actions to de-energize and secure equipment. It involves:
Proper training is non-negotiable. All employees must understand their role in the Lockout/Tagout program. Authorized employees—those who perform the Lockout/Tagout procedures—learn to identify and control hazardous energy. Affected employees—who work near the equipment—are trained to never tamper with a lock or tag.
A Lockout/Tagout program is only effective if it’s consistently followed. Regular, periodic inspections ensure that procedures are being performed correctly. This helps identify and fix any issues before they can lead to an accident, keeping your workplace safe and compliant.
Pinnacol's Safety Consultants are here to help you. To request a Safety Service visit or if you simply have a safety-related question, please complete our Contact Us form and one of our Safety Consultants will respond within two business days.
Lockout-Tagout Interactive Training Program
To learn more or to request enrollment, check out our Safety Education Online page.