What is the purpose of a lockout/tagout procedure?

The purpose of a lockout/tagout procedure is fundamentally to prevent unexpected startup of equipment while maintenance or servicing activities are being performed. This safety protocol involves placing locks or tags on equipment controls to ensure that machinery cannot be unintentionally engaged. This is critical in protecting workers from potential hazards that could arise if equipment were to start unexpectedly during maintenance operations.

For instance, when a technician is working on a pump, using a lockout/tagout procedure means that nobody can turn the pump back on while they are working on it, significantly reducing the risk of accidents. Implementing this procedure is a crucial aspect of workplace safety, particularly in environments where heavy machinery and hazardous equipment are present. This underscores the importance of this measure in ensuring a safe working environment.