What should be done after completing maintenance work on equipment under LOTO?

After completing maintenance work on equipment under Lockout/Tagout (LOTO), the correct action is to remove the lockout/tagout devices and restart the machinery. This step is critical because it signifies that the maintenance has been completed, and the equipment is safe to operate again. Before removing these devices, it is essential to verify that all maintenance work has been performed, and there are no hazards present that could endanger employees when the machinery is re-energized.

In practice, when removing locks or tags, it is necessary to follow protocols that ensure all affected employees are informed that the equipment is about to be put back into service. This is typically done by communicating with colleagues in the area and making sure that anyone who may be affected is aware that the restart is imminent.

The importance of this action lies in the need to ensure a safe transition back to normal operations, avoiding unintentional re-energizing while someone may still be near or working on the machinery. Each step in the process, including lock removal and machinery restart, needs careful management and communication to uphold safety standards.