lockout-tagout

LOCKOUT/TAGOUT: What is it and why is it important?

Lockout/Tagout LOTO Procedures for Control of Hazardous

Importance of Lockout/Tagout in the WorkplaceAccidents at the workplace can cause serious injury or worse, so there are many regulations and safety measures put in place for prevention. One such standard is Lockout/Tagout, drafted by the Canadian Standards Association Group and endorsed by the Standards Council of Canada for the purpose of controlling hazardous energy. Proper lockout and tagging out equipment means it is safely (and legally) separated from its power source, most often for maintenance. First, keep reading for SET Safety’s guide to how the process works and why it is significant– then contact us for more details on our online “Lockout/Tagout in the Workplace” course.

WHAT IS LOCKOUT/TAGOUT?

The term “lockout/tagout” or LOTO broadly describes the systematic method of shutting down an energy source and its attached device. It also covers the method of bringing the system back online, prioritizing employee safety throughout the entire process. Steps include notifying other workers, releasing stored or residual energy, locking down the switch with double-redundant padlocks and drafting a tag with all relevant details.

WHY IS LOCKOUT/TAGOUT IMPORTANT?

As stated above, injury prevention is the principal goal of most safety standards and should be the first priority of every workplace. Lockout/tagout is just that– it ensures the safe handling, repair and maintenance of utilities, equipment and machinery. Failing that, it is a legal standard that determines liability in any case where the hazardous energy is released (whether or not serious injury occurs).
As you can see locking and tagging out a system or tool is absolutely vital to workplaces with such equipment. It is a serious matter, but efficient and modern safety training has achieved better results than in-class alternatives. Furthermore, SET Safety’s online “Lockout/Tagout in the Workplace” course can be completed in approximately 75 minutes, depending on the learner.
Contact SET Safety today–you or your business can recapture time and money lost to lengthy seminars or in-house training overhead.


The contents of this article is provided as information-only and does not substitute workplace training, competency, legislative or industrial requirements. SET Safety and/ or the author is not responsible for the accuracy or validity of this information. SET Safety and/or the author does not accept liability for the reliability, accuracy or completeness of the information presented. This article does not substitute legal, jurisdictional or professional advice. The reader bears all responsibility to seek professional guidance or advice on any information noted in this blog or related to the content of this blog.