What are the basic steps of a Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) procedure?

What are the basic steps of a Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) procedure?

• A. Identify energy sources; notify affected workers; isolate source; lock and tag; verify isolation; perform work; remove tools; re-energize; restore.
• B. Identify energy sources; do nothing; resume.
• C. Lockout only; no tagging.
• D. Tagout after work.

Answer: (A)

Lockout/Tagout is about controlling all energy sources so equipment cannot start or release energy while maintenance is done. The steps in the standard sequence begin with identifying all energy sources powering the equipment and informing affected workers so everyone knows work is underway. Then the device is shut down and isolated from its energy sources. Locks and tags are applied to the energy‑isolating devices to prevent re-energizing and to clearly communicate that the equipment must not be operated. After isolation, the system is verified to be de-energized and safe—no energy remains that could cause movement or release stored energy—before any work begins. With the equipment safe, the maintenance work is performed. When the job is done, tools and other items are removed from the area to avoid accidental startup. Finally, the equipment is re-energized and restored to service, and the locks/tags are removed only after it’s confirmed safe. Other options either skip essential steps (such as isolating, locking and tagging, or verification) or present an unsafe sequence, so they don’t provide the protective safeguards that the proper process requires.

Lockout/Tagout is about controlling all energy sources so equipment cannot start or release energy while maintenance is done. The steps in the standard sequence begin with identifying all energy sources powering the equipment and informing affected workers so everyone knows work is underway. Then the device is shut down and isolated from its energy sources. Locks and tags are applied to the energy‑isolating devices to prevent re-energizing and to clearly communicate that the equipment must not be operated. After isolation, the system is verified to be de-energized and safe—no energy remains that could cause movement or release stored energy—before any work begins. With the equipment safe, the maintenance work is performed. When the job is done, tools and other items are removed from the area to avoid accidental startup. Finally, the equipment is re-energized and restored to service, and the locks/tags are removed only after it’s confirmed safe.

Other options either skip essential steps (such as isolating, locking and tagging, or verification) or present an unsafe sequence, so they don’t provide the protective safeguards that the proper process requires.