What could potentially happen if LOTO procedures are not followed?

When LOTO procedures are not followed, one of the most severe consequences is the risk of employees being injured due to unexpected energization of machinery or equipment. The purpose of Lockout/Tagout procedures is to ensure that machines are properly shut off and not able to be started up again until maintenance or servicing work is completed. If these procedures are neglected, workers may inadvertently activate machines that are being serviced, leading to serious accidents, injuries, or even fatalities.

Effective LOTO practices are critical in preventing such incidents. They establish a safe work environment by ensuring that all energy sources are controlled and that workers are protected while they perform their necessary tasks. The potential for severe injury underscores the importance of strictly adhering to these safety protocols in any facility that involves maintenance work on machinery.