Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) is a critical safety procedure used to ensure that machines and equipment are properly shut off and not able to be started up again prior to the completion of maintenance or servicing work. Here are some key points and actionable steps based on the provided documents:

1. Energy Control Program: Employers must establish a comprehensive energy control program that includes procedures for lockout/tagout, employee training, and periodic inspections to ensure compliance and safety [1].

2. Application of Lockout/Tagout: Only authorized employees should apply lockout or tagout devices. These devices must be affixed to each energy isolating device to ensure that the equipment cannot be operated until the lockout device is removed [2].

3. Verification of Isolation: Before starting work on machines or equipment that have been locked out or tagged out, authorized employees must verify that isolation and de-energization have been accomplished [3].

4. Release from Lockout/Tagout: Before removing lockout or tagout devices and restoring energy, the work area must be inspected to ensure that nonessential items have been removed and that all employees are safely positioned or removed. Affected employees must be notified that the devices have been removed [3].

5. Group Lockout/Tagout: When servicing is performed by a group, a procedure must be used that provides the same level of protection as a personal lockout/tagout device. Each authorized employee must affix a personal lockout or tagout device to the group lockout device when they begin work and remove it when they stop [4].

6. Shift Changes: Specific procedures must be in place during shift or personnel changes to ensure the continuity of lockout or tagout protection, minimizing exposure to hazards from unexpected energization [4].

7. Training and Retraining: Employees must be trained and retrained whenever there is a change in job assignments, machines, equipment, or processes that present a new hazard, or when there is a change in energy control procedures [2].

By following these guidelines, workplaces can significantly reduce the risk of accidents related to the unexpected energization or startup of machines and equipment.