Definition
Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) is a safety procedure for physically isolating and securing hazardous energy sources (electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, stored) with a lock and identifying tag before work begins, so the equipment cannot be energized or released while a person works on it. It addresses energy isolation specifically, distinct from a Permit to Work, which addresses broader work authorization and coordination.
Key facts
- Addresses physical energy isolation specifically, locking and tagging out sources of hazardous energy before work begins.
- Applies to electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, and stored (spring, gravity) energy, not only electrical power.
- Each individual working on the equipment typically applies their own lock, so equipment cannot be released until everyone has removed theirs.
- A specific safety control, distinct from a Permit to Work, which more broadly authorizes and coordinates a work activity, potentially including LOTO as one requirement.
What information does Lockout/Tagout preserve?
Lockout/Tagout works by identifying every source of hazardous energy that could affect the equipment being worked on, physically isolating each one (opening a disconnect, bleeding pressure, blocking stored energy), and securing it with a lock and identifying tag so it cannot be re-energized until the person who applied the lock removes it.
How do maintenance teams use Lockout/Tagout?
Lockout/Tagout is a specific technical safety procedure focused on isolating hazardous energy. A Permit to Work is the broader authorization and coordination process for a work activity, which may require LOTO to be completed as one of its conditions, alongside other checks like fire watch, confined-space entry, or hot-work precautions.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
What role does the isolation of hazardous energy before work play?
Lockout/Tagout plays this role: physically isolating and securing hazardous energy sources with a lock and tag before work begins, so equipment cannot be energized while someone works on it.
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