Safe Work Procedure: Lockout Tagout (LOTO)

Document Number: [SWP-NUMBER]
Revision Date: [DATE]
Next Review Date: [NEXT REVIEW DATE]
Department: [DEPARTMENT NAME]

1. Scope

This procedure covers the lockout and tagout (LOTO) of energy isolating devices to ensure that machines and equipment are isolated from energy sources before any servicing or maintenance activities are performed. It applies to all employees, contractors, and visitors who may be exposed to hazardous energy during maintenance activities.

This procedure is applicable in environments where unexpected energization or release of stored energy could cause injury. It should be used in conjunction with other safety procedures and standards, such as OSHA 29 CFR 1910.147.

2. Definitions

Lockout
The placement of a lockout device on an energy isolating device to ensure that the device and the equipment being controlled cannot be operated until the lockout device is removed .

Tagout
The placement of a tagout device on an energy isolating device to indicate that the device and the equipment being controlled may not be operated until the tagout device is removed .

Authorized Employee
An employee who locks out or tags out machines or equipment to perform servicing or maintenance .

3. Responsibilities

3.1 Supervisors

Ensure all employees are trained in LOTO procedures.
Verify compliance with LOTO procedures during maintenance activities.
Conduct periodic inspections of LOTO procedures .

3.2 Workers

Follow all LOTO procedures and use appropriate devices.
Report any deviations or inadequacies in LOTO procedures.
Participate in training and retraining sessions .

3.3 Health and Safety Representative

Assist in the development and review of LOTO procedures.
Participate in incident investigations related to LOTO failures.

4. Potential Hazards and Risks

Hazard	Risk	Control Measures
Unexpected energization	Injury or death	Use lockout devices to isolate energy sources .
Stored energy	Release causing injury	Relieve, disconnect, or restrain stored energy .
Inadequate communication	Accidental re-energization	Notify all affected employees before and after LOTO device application .

5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Proper PPE must be worn at all times during LOTO procedures to protect against potential hazards.

Safety glasses - Protect eyes from debris and energy release.
Insulated gloves - Protect hands from electrical hazards.
Hard hats - Protect head from falling objects.
Safety shoes - Protect feet from heavy objects and slips.

Inspect PPE before use and replace any damaged equipment immediately.

6. Equipment and Tools

Use appropriate lockout and tagout devices to ensure energy isolation.

Locks - Secure energy isolating devices in the "off" position .
Tags - Clearly indicate that the device should not be operated .
Chains and wedges - Additional securing devices as needed .

Inspect all equipment and tools before use to ensure they are in good condition.

7. Pre-Job Requirements

7.1 Training and Competency

All employees must be trained in LOTO procedures and demonstrate competency in their application .

7.2 Pre-Job Briefing

Conduct a briefing to review the LOTO procedure, identify energy sources, and discuss potential hazards.

7.3 Work Area Preparation

Ensure the work area is clear of non-essential items and that all employees are aware of the LOTO procedure being implemented.

8. Safe Work Procedure Steps

Step 1: Preparation for Shutdown

Identify all energy sources.
Notify affected employees of the shutdown.
Review the procedure for shutting down equipment .

Step 2: Machine or Equipment Shutdown

Turn off the machine using established procedures.
Ensure an orderly shutdown to avoid additional hazards .

Step 3: Isolation of Energy Sources

Locate and operate all energy isolating devices.
Ensure complete isolation from energy sources .

Step 4: Application of Lockout/Tagout Devices

Affix lockout devices to each energy isolating device.
Attach tagout devices to indicate the equipment should not be operated .

Step 5: Release of Stored Energy

Relieve or restrain all stored energy.
Verify that all energy sources are isolated .

Step 6: Verification of Isolation

Verify that the machine is de-energized and safe to work on.
Test the machine to ensure it cannot be operated .

9. Precautions and Safety Measures

Ensure all employees are clear of the equipment before applying LOTO devices.
Use only standardized and durable LOTO devices .
Conduct periodic inspections to ensure compliance .

10. Emergency Procedures

10.1 General Emergency Response

Evacuate the area if an unexpected energization occurs.
Contact emergency services if necessary.

10.2 Specific Emergency Scenarios

Unexpected Energization - Immediately stop work and reapply LOTO devices.
Injury During LOTO - Provide first aid and contact emergency services.

10.3 Emergency Contact Information

[List of emergency contacts and their phone numbers]

11. Incident Reporting and Investigation

Report all incidents, near-misses, and hazards to a supervisor immediately. Participate in investigations to identify root causes and prevent recurrence.

12. References and Related Documents

OSHA 29 CFR 1910.147
[Reference 2]
[Reference 3]

Approved by: [NAME AND POSITION]
Date: [APPROVAL DATE]