Who is responsible for conducting LOTO inspections?

The responsibility for conducting Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) inspections falls to a designated person who is not the authorized employee being inspected. This practice ensures an objective evaluation of the lockout/tagout procedures and compliance with safety protocols. An independent party who is not directly involved in the lockout can effectively identify any potential issues or areas for improvement without bias. This is critical in maintaining the integrity and effectiveness of the LOTO program.

Involving someone who is not an authorized employee also helps maintain the checks and balances necessary for a robust safety system. It allows for a more comprehensive review of practices, as the designated inspector can provide fresh insights and might catch oversights that the authorized employee may miss due to familiarity.

The other options, while they pertain to individuals involved in LOTO processes, do not possess the objectivity or oversight required to effectively evaluate another employee's compliance or procedures. Therefore, having a designated person conduct the inspections is a vital component of a successful safety management system.