What does effective lockout/tagout help prevent?

Effective lockout/tagout (LOTO) practices are critical in preventing employee injuries and fatalities during the maintenance and servicing of machinery and equipment. By ensuring that energy sources are properly locked out and labelled, employees are protected from unexpected machine start-ups, energization, or release of stored energy that could occur while they are working on equipment.

The primary goal of LOTO is to provide a safe working environment, particularly in industrial settings where the risk of accidents is high due to the presence of machinery that can pose serious dangers. When procedures are followed correctly, they significantly reduce the chance of harm to workers, thereby safeguarding their health and wellbeing. This emphasis on safety is a fundamental principle of OSHA regulations, highlighting the importance of effective training and compliance with lockout/tagout protocols in minimizing workplace hazards and protecting employees from injury or death.