Lock-Out / Tag-Out (LOTO) Best Practices
When servicing or repairing equipment, the uncontrolled release of hazardous energy—electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, thermal or gravitational—can cause serious injury or fatality.
A strong Lock-Out / Tag-Out (LOTO) programme ensures machinery is isolated, secured and cannot be re-energised until all work is safely complete.
🔑 Key Discussion Points for the Team
1️⃣ Identify All Energy Sources
Before work begins, authorised personnel must identify every energy source to the machine. This includes the main electrical supply, stored energy (springs, hydraulics, compressed air), gravity-loaded parts, residual circuits and mechanical locks.
Take-away: Don’t assume “it’s off” means safe—verify every source.
2️⃣ Notify Affected Workers
Anyone working nearby must be informed that the equipment is locked out and cannot be used during service.
Take-away: Clear signage + verbal briefing = fewer surprises.
3️⃣ Shutdown → Isolation → Lock / Tag
Follow the standard LOTO sequence:
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Shut down the equipment
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Isolate all energy sources
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Apply lock(s) and tag(s) to each isolating device
Each lock must show the authorised worker’s name, date and reason. Only that worker can remove their lock.
Take-away: Use approved LOTO devices—random padlocks don’t count.
4️⃣ Release Stored Energy & Verify Isolation
Even after lockout, residual energy may remain. This may include hydraulic pressure, compressed air, or suspended loads. Release, block or restrain it, then verify isolation with a controlled “try-out”.
Take-away: Tagging alone isn’t enough—verify actual isolation.
5️⃣ Maintain the Lockout Until Work Is Complete
The authorised worker holds the key and only removes the lock once tools are clear, guards are replaced and the system is deemed safe. Communicate clearly before restart.
Take-away: Lockout isn’t done until the system is fit for service.
⚙️ Why LOTO Matters in Drilling, Construction & Industrial Work
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One unexpected energisation can cause amputations, crushing, arc flash or fatal injuries.
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Complex rigs, pumps, conveyors and pressurised systems often contain multiple energy sources.
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Multi-trade worksites face communication challenges—machine-specific LOTO procedures eliminate guesswork.
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Strong LOTO processes protect workers, contractors and equipment.
✅ Good Practices to Implement Today
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Post a machine-specific LOTO procedure at every major piece of equipment.
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Inspect your LOTO kit regularly (unique-key locks, legible tags, hasps, group-isolation devices).
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Audit recent service jobs—were locks applied, stored energy released and isolation verified?
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Run a toolbox talk: “If you walked past this locked-out machine, would you know why it’s locked out?”
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Report unclear tags, missing isolation points or unsafe conditions—fix before the next job.
✅ Take look at our Lock out Tag Out Selection