🔒 Lockout/Tagout (LOTO)

OSHA Compliant Safety Meeting | ~15 minutes

The 6 steps of lockout/tagout

1

Prepare for shutdown

Identify all energy sources — electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, thermal, chemical. Notify all affected employees.

2

Shut down the equipment

Use the normal stopping procedure. Never pull the plug or hit the emergency stop as the first step.

3

Isolate energy sources

Disconnect, close, or block all energy isolation devices — breakers, valves, switches, disconnects.

4

Apply locks and tags

Each worker applies their own lock and tag. One person, one lock. Never share locks or remove someone else's lock.

5

Release stored energy

Bleed pressure lines, discharge capacitors, block elevated components, and release springs or other stored energy.

6

Verify zero energy

Test the equipment to confirm all energy is isolated. Try the start button. Use a voltage tester. Confirm zero energy state.

The 6 Steps of LOTO

1. Notify affected employees
2. Shut down equipment
3. Isolate energy sources
4. Apply locks and tags
5. Release stored energy
6. Verify isolation

Never Remove Someone Else's Lock