What is the role of Lockout/Tagout regulations in the workplace?

Lockout/Tagout regulations play a critical role in ensuring worker safety by protecting employees from hazardous energy while they are servicing or maintaining equipment. These regulations establish safety procedures that require the disconnection and locking or tagging of machines to prevent the accidental release of hazardous energy sources, such as electricity, mechanical energy, hydraulics, or stored energy. This safety measure is vital in preventing workplace injuries, as it provides a secure method to ensure that machinery cannot be started up accidentally while work is being performed.

By implementing Lockout/Tagout procedures, workplaces can effectively minimize the risk of accidents and injuries, thereby safeguarding employees' well-being. The emphasis is specifically on controlling hazardous energy to prevent serious accidents, making it a fundamental aspect of industrial safety practices.