During maintenance, what does "lockout/tagout" (LOTO) refer to?

Lockout/tagout (LOTO) is a critical safety procedure designed to prevent the accidental energization or startup of machinery and equipment during maintenance or repair. The primary goal of LOTO is to ensure that workers are protected from potential hazards while they perform their tasks. By implementing lockout/tagout practices, workers physically lock and tag energy sources, effectively rendering the equipment inoperable. This prevents any unexpected operation that could lead to injuries due to moving parts, electrical shock, or other risks associated with maintenance activities.

The importance of LOTO lies in its ability to create a safe working environment. When maintenance is conducted on machinery, it is essential to ensure that no one can inadvertently activate the machine while someone is working on it. Therefore, the procedure involves using locks and tags to indicate that the equipment should not be operated until maintenance has been fully completed and the locks removed by authorized personnel.

In contrast, while securing tools, enhancing productivity, or training new employees are all important aspects of workplace practices, they do not encapsulate the primary aim and function of lockout/tagout, which is centered specifically on worker safety during maintenance operations.