What key benefit does a lockout/tagout program provide?

A lockout/tagout program is fundamentally designed to enhance overall workplace safety and reduce accidents. This safety protocol ensures that machines and equipment are properly shut down and unable to start up again until maintenance or servicing work has been completed. By applying locks and tags on energy-isolating devices, employees are protected from unexpected energization or startup, which is a leading cause of workplace injuries. The effectiveness of a lockout/tagout program lies in its ability to create a safer work environment, leading to fewer accidents and injuries, thereby promoting a culture of safety within the organization. This emphasis on safety is critical not only for compliance with OSHA regulations but also for the well-being of all employees in the workplace.