Lockout–tagout

Lockout–tagout (LOTO) is a safety procedure that is used in industry and research settings to ensure that dangerous machines are properly shut off and not able to be started up again prior to the completion of maintenance or repair work. It requires that hazardous energy sources be "isolated and rendered inoperative" before work is started on the equipment in question. The isolated power sources are then locked and a tag is placed indicating that the power source has been locked out.

History

The concept of lockout-tagout has been around for many years, but it was not until the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) implemented regulations in 1989 that it became a standard practice in industries across the United States. The regulations were put in place to prevent the unexpected energization, start-up, or release of stored energy during service or maintenance which could cause injury to employees.

Procedure

The lockout-tagout procedure is a multi-step process. First, the machine or power source is identified and the decision to shut it down is made. Next, the machine is turned off and disconnected from its power source. The power source is then locked and a tag is placed on it indicating that it has been locked out. The tag includes information such as the name of the person who locked out the machine, the date, and the reason for the lockout.

The machine is then tested to make sure it cannot be operated. Once the maintenance or repair work is completed, the machine is tested again to ensure it is operating correctly. The lock and tag are then removed, and the machine is returned to service.

Regulations

In the United States, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulates lockout-tagout procedures. OSHA's standard for The Control of Hazardous Energy (Lockout/Tagout), Title 29 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 1910.147, covers the servicing and maintenance of machines and equipment in which the unexpected energization or start-up of the machines or equipment, or release of stored energy, could harm employees.

See also

• Occupational Safety and Health Administration
• Safety engineering
• Industrial safety systems