Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) electrical safety is an essential practice in industries where workers deal with electrical equipment and machinery. The primary goal of LOTO is to protect workers from the hazards of unexpected energization or release of stored energy during maintenance activities. By implementing proper LOTO procedures, workplaces can significantly reduce the risk of injuries, electrical shocks, and fatalities. This article explores the importance of LOTO electrical safety, its key elements, and how it contributes to a safer work environment.

    Electrical hazards are among the most common causes of workplace injuries. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), electrical incidents lead to numerous injuries and fatalities every year. These accidents are often caused by faulty equipment, improper handling of machinery, or workers not adhering to safety protocols.

    LOTO electrical safety procedures were developed to address these risks by ensuring that electrical sources are properly isolated and controlled during maintenance activities. The core idea is simple： before any work begins on electrical systems or machinery, all sources of hazardous energy (electric, hydraulic, pneumatic, etc.) must be locked out, tagged, and de-energized to prevent any accidental activation.