5 Steps Of Lockout Tagout Loto Safety Procedures

Lockout/tagout (LOTO) is a safety procedure that helps protect workers from hazardous energy sources during maintenance or servicing of equipment. It involves isolating energy sources, such as electricity, gas, or hydraulics, and preventing their release until the work is complete. LOTO is an essential part of any safety program and should be followed by all workers who interact with potentially hazardous machinery or equipment.

Purpose of LOTO

The purpose of LOTO is to prevent the unexpected release of hazardous energy, which can cause serious injury or death to workers. LOTO procedures ensure that energy sources are isolated and controlled before any maintenance or servicing work begins. This helps to prevent the inadvertent start-up of equipment, the release of hazardous substances, or the movement of machinery.

5 Steps of LOTO

LOTO procedures typically involve five steps:

Step 1: Preparation

Identify the energy sources: Determine all of the potential energy sources that could pose a hazard during maintenance or servicing. This may include electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, or chemical sources.

Gather lockout devices: Obtain the necessary lockout devices, such as locks, tags, and lockout hasps. These devices will be used to isolate and control the energy sources.

Notify affected employees: Inform all employees who may be affected by the LOTO procedure that the equipment will be shut down for maintenance or servicing.

 

Step 2: Isolation

Locate and isolate: Identify and isolate all of the energy sources that were identified in Step 1. This may involve shutting off electrical breakers, closing valves, or disconnecting hoses.

Verify isolation: Test the isolation devices to ensure that they are functioning properly and that the energy sources have been isolated. This may involve using a voltage tester or manually checking for movement.

Step 3: Lockout and Tagout

Apply lockout devices: Place locks on all of the lockout devices that were used to isolate the energy sources. The locks must be keyed differently to ensure that they cannot be removed by unauthorized personnel.

Attach tags: Attach tags to the lockout devices that provide information about the LOTO procedure, including the date and time of the lockout, the name of the employee who performed the lockout, and the reason for the lockout.

Step 4: Verification

Test the lockout: Attempt to operate the equipment or system that was locked out to ensure that the energy sources have been effectively isolated. This may involve trying to turn on the equipment or open a valve.

Verify with others: Have another qualified employee independently verify the lockout and tagout procedures to ensure that they have been followed correctly.

Step 5: Restoration of Service

Remove tags: Remove the tags from the lockout devices after the maintenance or servicing work is complete.

Unlock lockout devices: Remove the locks from the lockout devices and restore power to the equipment or system.

Notify affected employees: Inform all employees who were notified of the LOTO procedure that the equipment or system is ready to be used again.

Additional Considerations

In addition to the five steps outlined above, there are a few additional considerations that should be taken into account when implementing LOTO procedures:

Training: All employees who are involved in LOTO procedures must be properly trained on the specific requirements and procedures for their workplace.

Documentation: A written LOTO policy should be developed and maintained to provide guidance and ensure consistency in LOTO procedures.

Audits: Regular audits should be conducted to verify that LOTO procedures are being followed correctly and that equipment is being maintained in a safe condition.

Emergency procedures: Emergency procedures should be developed and communicated to all employees in case of an accidental release of hazardous energy.

Conclusion

LOTO procedures are an essential part of any safety program and should be followed by all workers who interact with potentially hazardous machinery or equipment. By following the five steps of LOTO, employers can help to protect their employees from the hazards associated with hazardous energy sources and create a safer work environment.

External References

Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) LOTO Standard

National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) LOTO Guidance

American National Standards Institute (ANSI) Z244.1 Lockout/Tagout Standard

 

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