Electrical Shutdown Procedures and Lockout/Tagout (LOTO)

Date: 2026-01-13

Duration: [DURATION] minutes

Presenter: [PRESENTER NAME]

Location: [LOCATION]

Objective

To understand and implement safe electrical shutdown procedures, including proper Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) practices and de-energization verification to prevent injuries from unexpected energy release.

Introduction

This toolbox talk covers the procedures for safely shutting down electrical equipment, focusing on Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) to prevent accidental startup or release of stored energy during maintenance or servicing.

Key Points

• LOTO Steps: Follow the detailed LOTO steps to ensure complete isolation of electrical energy.
  • Prepare for Shutdown: Identify energy type and hazards.
  • Notify Affected Workers: Inform all workers about the shutdown.
  • Shut down the Tool or Equipment: Follow the correct shutdown procedure.
  • Disconnect or Isolate: Completely isolate from energy sources.
  • Apply Lock(s) and Tag(s): Secure energy-isolating devices.
  • Dissipate Stored Energy: Release any stored energy.
  • Check for Stored Energy: Verify energy isolation with testing instruments.
• De-energization Verification: Always verify that electrical power is off using an AC voltage tester after applying LOTO. [3]
• Restoration: Restoration involves inspecting the work area, removing LOTO devices, informing affected employees, and restarting the equipment. [1]
• Lockout vs. Tagout: Lockout physically isolates the energy source with a lock, while tagout uses a tag to warn against operation. Lockout is more effective, and tagout is a supplementary measure. [2] [2]

Hazard Identification

Working with electrical systems involves several hazards if proper shutdown and lockout/tagout procedures are not followed.

• Electrical shock from unexpected energization.: Severe burns, cardiac arrest, or death.
• Arc flash due to improper de-energization.: Severe burns, blindness, hearing loss, and potential fatalities.
• Uncontrolled release of stored electrical energy.: Electrical burns, explosions, and equipment damage.
• Equipment malfunction due to improper shutdown.: Equipment damage, project delays, and potential for injury upon restart.

Control Measures

• De-energize electrical circuits.: Always de-energize circuits before working on them, unless de-energizing creates a greater hazard. [3]
• Apply Lockout/Tagout (LOTO).: Use LOTO devices to prevent circuits from becoming live during maintenance or repair. [3]
• Verify isolation.: Use an AC voltage tester to ensure the electrical power is off before starting work. [3]
• Dissipate stored energy.: Always dissipate stored energy, such as that in capacitors, before commencing work. [1]
• Properly identify power sources.: Clearly identify disconnected power sources and circuits to prevent confusion. [3]
• Inspect equipment.: Regularly inspect electrical equipment to ensure it is in safe working order. [4]

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Requirements

• Head, Face, and Eye Protection: Use appropriate face shields and safety glasses to protect against arc flash and electrical explosions. [5] [5]
• Insulated Gloves: Wear appropriately rated insulated gloves to protect against electrical shock. Inspect gloves before each use for damage.
• Body Protection: Wear fire-resistant (FR) clothing to protect against burns from arc flash. [5]
• Foot Protection: Wear safety shoes with electrical hazard (EH) protection to prevent electric shock through the feet. [5]

Group Discussion

Discuss the following questions:

1. What types of energy sources should you be concerned about?
2. What are the steps for proper LOTO?
3. Why is it important to verify de-energization?

Emergency Procedures

1. Immediately call for emergency medical assistance.
2. Shut down the power supply if it is safe to do so.
3. Administer first aid, including CPR if necessary, until medical help arrives.

Questions and Answers

• Q: What is an authorized employee?

A: An authorized employee is a person who has been properly trained to perform lockout/tagout procedures on machinery or equipment that is to be serviced. [6]

• Q: What is an affected employee?

A: An affected employee is a person who operates the machinery or equipment but does not perform the lockout procedures, or a person who works in the area where machine or equipment maintenance is being done. [6]

Summary

Recap of main points:

• Always follow LOTO procedures before working on electrical equipment.
• Verify de-energization using appropriate testing equipment.
• Use appropriate PPE to protect against electrical hazards.
• Ensure all workers are informed and trained on LOTO procedures.

Report all hazards, near-misses, and incidents to your supervisor immediately.

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