LOTO FAQ
This document outlines Frequently Asked Questions about Lock Out/Tag Out. Lock out/Tag out SAVES LIVES and prevents injury due to unexpected startup of equipment or release of energy by cutting off energy from machines when working on them.
General Authorization & Usage
Who can practice lockout?
Only those who have attended the LOTO Authorized Employee (AE) training. If you need LOTO AE training, work with your supervisor and Safety to schedule it.
Why should I LOTO?
To protect yourself from uncontrolled energy. LOTO failures often result in serious injury or death.
When do I need to LOTO?
When removing guards, bypassing safety devices, or working where machine startup could cause injury.
Flag actions requiring lockout: Removing/bypassing guards or safety devices, clearing jams, working on electrical circuits, or exposure to moving parts.
Lock & Security Rules
Can anyone remove my lock?
No. Only the person doing the work holds the key to their LOTO lock and has the authority to remove it.
What if I need to work on equipment that is locked out by someone on vacation?
You and your supervisor must follow the Abandoned Lock Procedure, which outlines specific exceptions and steps to safely remove another person's lock.
Can I lockout equipment for someone else?
No. Each person working on the equipment must place their own lock and tag on the energy isolation device to ensure personal safety.
Can I use LOTO to secure equipment when I’m not actively working on it?
No. LOTO locks are strictly used to protect active workers. Use a Holdout lock/tag to secure equipment when no active work is taking place.
What is a "Holdout lock" and how do you use it?
A holdout lock provides protection/security to systems, equipment, or machinery—NOT employees. Never use a holdout lock as a LOTO lock.
Energy Isolation & Devices
What types of energy am I locking out?
Electrical, mechanical, chemical, thermal, pneumatic, hydraulic, gas, steam, etc. Always lock out primary sources and control or release secondary/stored energy (motion, pressure, gravity).
What is an energy isolation device?
A mechanical device that physically prevents the release of energy and displays position (e.g., ON/OFF, OPEN/CLOSED). Examples include circuit breakers, disconnect switches, and valves.
Are there exceptions to lockout?
Yes, if the only energy source is a single plug and cord that can be controlled by unplugging the equipment, provided the plug remains under your exclusive control.
Procedures & Steps
What are the steps in performing a LOTO?
- Prepare for shutdown: Understand the equipment & notify affected employees.
- Shutdown: Shut off power.
- Isolate energy source: Disconnect all energy sources.
- Apply LOTO device, lock, and tag: Lock out energy isolation devices.
- Release/control stored energy: Check for secondary/stored energy.
- Verify: Survey area, check gauges, look/listen for residual energy. (Use meter for electrical verification).
What are the steps in removing a LOTO?
- Reassemble equipment: Reinstall guards/safety devices and clear all tools.
- Notify: Inform affected employees that lock is being removed.
- Remove & test: Remove lock and verify proper equipment operation.
Lock Colors & Locations
Where to get supplies & what do lock colors mean?
Lockout Devices: 45 N Charter | Locks: 30 N Mills (Lock Shop)
| Shop / Group | Lock Color |
|---|---|
| Electric Shop | Red |
| Machine Shop | Black |
| Carpenter Shop | Yellow |
| Paint Shop | Blue |
| Sheetmetal Shop | Orange |
| Plumbing Shop | Silver |
| Steamfitters Shop | Purple |
| Maintenance Mechanics | Green |
| Asset Management Group | Brown |
Training & Compliance
How often do I need to be trained on LOTO?
Best practice is an annual review of LOTO processes. Formal Authorized Employee LOTO training must be completed every 3 years.
Are there consequences of not following LOTO procedures?
Yes. Non-compliance results in formal investigation and corrective or disciplinary action.