What is meant by the term "energy control" in LOTO?

The term "energy control" in the context of Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) refers to the procedures that ensure machines and equipment are safely shut down and unable to be started up again while maintenance or servicing is being performed. This is a critical aspect of workplace safety, especially in environments where hazardous energy can pose significant risks to workers.

Energy control procedures involve the identification of all energy sources associated with a machine, such as electrical, hydraulic, mechanical, or pneumatic energy. Workers implement specific steps to isolate these energy sources to prevent accidental starts or the release of stored energy during maintenance tasks. This ensures that employees working on machinery can do so safely without the risk of injury from unexpected machine activation or energy release.

Managing only electrical systems, disabling alarms, or conducting a training program for new hires do not encompass the full scope of energy control involved in LOTO practices. Instead, they represent narrower aspects that do not capture the comprehensive approach required to manage all forms of hazardous energy effectively.