Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) Basics

Servicing equipment that unexpectedly powers on — or releases stored energy — causes thousands of serious injuries every year. Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) is the procedure that prevents it.

The 5 core steps

1.Prepare — identify every energy source: electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, thermal, gravity.

2.Shut down — turn off equipment using the normal stopping procedure.

3.Isolate & lock — apply your personal lock and tag to each energy-isolating device.

4.Release stored energy — bleed lines, discharge capacitors, block elevated parts.

5.Verify — attempt to start the equipment to confirm zero energy state.

Recommended certification

Lockout Tagout (LOTO) Certification

$30 · ~1h online · certificate issued same day · valid 2 years

Enroll →

Also read: Arc Flash Hazard Recognition: What Every QEW Needs to Know · When the Market Falls, Bodies Follow: The Deadly Link Between Economic Downturns and Tower Climbing Deaths

Golden rule

One worker, one lock, one key. Only the person who applied a lock removes it. No exceptions — even at shift change.

Why training matters

OSHA's standard (29 CFR 1910.147) requires authorized employees to be trained and re-certified. A LOTO course gives your crew the documented proof inspectors and clients ask for.