Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) procedures are essential for controlling hazardous energy sources, ensuring worker safety, and maintaining regulatory compliance. LOTO involves isolating energy from a system (machine, equipment, or process) and physically securing it in a safe or de-energized state Lockout uses a mechanical device such as a lock to hold an energy-isolating device in a safe position, preventing the machine from being energized. Tagout, which always accompanies lockout, involves attaching a standardized warning tag to the energy-isolating device to indicate that it should not be operated The purpose of a LOTO program is to prevent injuries from the unexpected release of hazardous energy during servicing or maintenance activities . [6] [6] [6] [4]

Key components of LOTO procedures include:

[1] [5] [3] [1] [1] [5] [5] [5] [5] [5] [5] [5]

[5] [5] [5] [5] Employers must establish a program that includes energy control procedures, employee training, and periodic inspections to ensure that machines or equipment are isolated from the energy source and rendered inoperative before any servicing or maintenance is performed . [2]