What is LOTO?
Lockout/Tagout/Tryout protects a worker by preventing others from turning on equipment or from a release of energy while working on or servicing equipment & machinery, working inside a grain bin, and working around conveyors and augers. LOTO controls hazardous energy.
How does it work?
All power sources are disconnected and locked in the off position. Each person involved locks out the power with their own personal lock and key so they have control of the energy source. They place a tag on the lock to warn others and to identify who is responsible. Before beginning work, each person tries the energy source to ensure it is locked out. No one else can remove another’s lock. Therefore, no one can accidentally turn on the equipment. In some facilities, only designated people can lockout power sources and/or an alternative group lockout process is used.
What is the LOTO procedure?
Lockout/Tagout/Tryout
- Identify the equipment/ machinery that needs to be shut down and ALL its energy sources. • Electrical, mechanical, gravitational, thermal, hydraulic, pneumatic, and chemical.
- Determine if there are any stored energy sources: • Capacitors, springs; elevated components; rotating flywheels; hydraulic systems; air, gas, steam, water pressure; piles that can shift; etc.
- Properly shut down equipment and machines: • Notify affected workers about the shutdown – those who work on the machines or equipment or work in area where LOTO will be done. • Shut off the power sources. • Apply locks & tags to the power sources so the machine/equipment cannot be started.
- TRY OUT – Test to see if the equipment is properly locked out by trying to start it. • After the work is completed, remove all tools. • Notify all employees the locks will be removed and the equipment will be restarted.
When do we need LOTO?
- Before any repairs, maintenance or service on equipment.
- Before any work that requires a person to place any part of their body in or near the point of operation.
Questions:
- LOTO controls what kind of energy?
- Do you know the LOTO procedure for the type of equipment you work with?