Lockout Tagout

About Lockout Tagout Equipment

During maintenance procedures, it is of the utmost importance that everything that can cause damage to human beings is shut down, residual energy is removed and the energy source that powers dangerous machinery or equipment is effectively isolated, preventing it from being switched on until the maintenance is carried out and a designated individual removes the Lockout Tagout equipment once - and only once - all employees are accounted for and moved away from the machinery about to be re-energised.

This process is known as Lockout Tagout, and it is extremely good practice to enforce these procedures in the workplace, provide adequate training to employees on Lockout Tagout (LOTO) and make sure that the procedures are being carried out via regular inspections.

There are countless horror stories from around the world when Lockout Tagout hasn't been enforced. Limbs have been cut off; people have sustained nasty injuries and even lost their lives because a machine was re-energised before it should have been. No matter what kind of energy powers a device, it simply must be locked out.

It isn't enough to just switch off the power switch that activates a piece of machinery. Residual energy such as gravity or even electrical power might be left over, and this may suddenly activate a machine without warning. This residual energy must also be siphoned off, or blockers must be implemented to ensure things such as heavy presses can't fall when not in operation.

Once this is accomplished, the user attaches a compatible lockout device to the isolation point. Depending on what type of energy source the point depends on what type of lockout is used, and there are specific lockout devices for valves, electrical circuit breakers, push-button switches, and a whole lot more. Once this is attached, the user, and other employees, secure this lockout device in place by attaching and securing various padlocks. Each person who attached a lock should then be responsible for removing it once the work is completed.

Tagout refers to the process of attaching relevant signs and indicators to the lockout point that warn others that LOTO is currently in operation. Without this, there's always a chance that someone might try to reactivate the energy source by removing the lockout device as they think maintenance isn't in operation, and this can have disastrous effects. Tagout equipment provides visual deterrents designed to stop people from doing this and is an important part of any lockout procedure.

To aid with isolating different forms of energy sources we've put together a selection of Lockout Tagout kits that contain a wide variety of different types of LOTO equipment. We stock kits for use in electrical applications, pneumatic applications, valves, and miniature circuit breakers.

Popular Products

• Lockout Lock 10 x Lockout Tags - Do Not Start: Ensure that locked-out machinery is clearly labelled and people know the equipment is not to be restarted. The tags include a 'Do not start' warning on one side and space for details on the other.

• Master Lock 498A Latch Tight Portable Group Lockout Box: The lockout box securely stores keys used in lockout applications. Team members can place their padlock key in the box, which can then be locked with up to 12 additional padlocks to prevent unauthorised access.

• ABUS Intrinsically Safe Padlocks with Long Shackles: These padlocks are suitable for security and lockout, tagout applications, locking bags and suitcases. They can also secure machines, switchboards, and job boxes. The padlocks are available in various colours.

• Lockout Lock Double Loop Aluminium Lockout Hasp - 10 Lock: Up to 10 individual padlocks can be attached to this easy-to-install hasp. The hasp is crafted from aluminium and has a chrome plating with two holes, 25 and 38mm.

• Martindale TAG4 Electrician Working Lockout Tags - 10 Pack: Double-sided tags with the message 'Do Not Operate Electrician Working' on one side with a danger symbol and 'Equipment Locked Off' and space for written information on the reverse side.

• Kewtech KEWLOK Lock Out Device: This MCB lockout device has a combination lock and, due to its adjustable size, is used for securing most types of miniature circuit breakers (MCB) and toggle main switches.

• Lockout Lock Adjustable Butterfly Valve Lockout: Fit this lockout around a butterfly valve to prevent the compression handle from being squeezed. The adjustable and easy-to-install valve is made from non-conductive polypropylene plastic and is resistant to cracking, abrasion and solvents/chemicals.

• Martindale CABLOKXBL Adjustable Cable Lockout: These cable lockouts ensure that multiple breakers, valves and switches remain locked off during routine maintenance work. Three cable lengths are available - 1m, 3m, and 5m.

• Master Lock 453L Nylon Electrical Plug Lockout: This nylon lockout sack covers the control panel or plugs to prevent access. PVC tubing blocks access to remote control buttons. The bag accommodates oversized plugs and control panels. It is temperature-resistant and features a strap with six holes for padlocks.

• Lockout Lock Cylinder Electrical Industrial Plug Lockout - Single Plug: This cylinder-shaped lockout blocks industrial plug sockets. It fits cylinder-shaped plugs up to 600V and is virtually impossible to open without removing the attached padlock.

• Lockout Lock Gas Cylinder Lockout with 'Full' Label: A gas canister lockout designed for easy installation features a front label indicating the canister is full. Interlocking plates secure it around the stem and fully enclose the valve head. Compatible with a stem hole diameter of 35mm.

• Lockout Lock Warning Stand - 'This Equipment Is Locked Out': A yellow, double-sided, foldable polypropylene sign warns against touching equipment while it is locked out.

FAQs

• What is Lockout Tagout (LOTO)?
  Lockout Tagout is a safety measure employed in industries to make sure that dangerous machines and equipment are serviced properly and shut off completely before commencing maintenance and repair work. This is done by affixing a lock (lockout) and tag (tagout) on the energy-isolating device to avoid any accidental releases of hazardous energy and prevent employees from sustaining injuries. The tag provides details as to who is liable for putting on the lock and the reason for the lockout.

• What is the OSHA Lockout Tagout Rule?
  The OSHA Lockout Tagout (LOTO) rule (29 CFR 1910.147) requires employers to control hazardous energy during the maintenance and servicing of machinery. Employers must develop written energy control procedures, provide lockout/tagout devices, and train employees to safely isolate energy sources. Periodic inspections of the procedures must be conducted to ensure their effectiveness. The rule aims to minimize the risk of accidents caused by the unexpected release of hazardous energy, such as electrical, hydraulic, or mechanical energy, during maintenance.

• What industries require LOTO compliance?
  Industries such as manufacturing, construction, utilities, chemical processing, energy production, etc., where hazardous energy is controlled to prevent accidental energisation or energy release, reducing the risk of serious injury or death during maintenance and repair of machinery and equipment.

• How often should LOTO procedures be audited?
  LOTO procedures should be audited at least annually, as required by OSHA, to ensure they are effective and compliant.

• What are the key components of a LOTO system?
  The main components are energy-isolating devices like switches and valves, detailed procedures, and training. Regular inspections ensure the system's effectiveness.

• How do I develop a LOTO program?
  Developing a Lockout/Tagout program begins with the evaluation, identification, and monitoring of all energy sources within machinery. Write specific procedures for the safe isolation and de-energisation of equipment, select the appropriate Lockout/Tagout devices for each energy-isolating point, and train authorised and affected employees on the proper use. Delegate responsibility for enforcement of the LOTO program to authorised personnel and schedule regular inspections to check for compliance and effectiveness. This program must be reviewed and updated to accommodate new risks and safety improvement initiatives.

• What training is required for LOTO?
  This includes LOTO training in the form of, general awareness for all employees, generally on the purpose of a lockout/tagout procedure and the dangers posed by hazardous energy. Authorized employees receive detailed training on how to perform each of the LOTO steps correctly while affected employees receive LOTO training pertinent to identifying LOTO devices and understanding their meaning. Retraining sessions are facilitated continuously for the sustainment of the program as well as to keep employees updated on procedural changes.