Lockout Vs Tagout Whats The Difference

Difference Between Lockout and Tagout

Lockout and tagout are two crucial safety procedures used in industrial and maintenance settings to protect workers from hazardous energy sources. While they share the same goal of ensuring safety, they employ different methods:

1. Lockout: Involves physically locking a device to prevent the activation of machinery or equipment. This method uses lockout devices such as padlocks and lockout hasps to secure the energy isolation points. Only authorized personnel can remove the locks, ensuring that the equipment remains inoperative until it is safe to resume work.
2. Tagout: Utilizes tags or labels attached to the energy isolation devices to warn others not to operate the equipment. Unlike lockout, tagout does not provide a physical barrier to reactivation. It relies on the visibility of the warning tags to prevent accidental or unauthorized operation.

Lockout and Tagout

Definition of Lockout/Tagout

Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) is a safety procedure used to ensure that dangerous machines and equipment are properly shut off and not started up again before the completion of maintenance or servicing work. This procedure involves isolating energy sources and placing locks and/or tags to communicate that the equipment should not be operated until the locks and tags are removed by the person who placed them.

Key elements of LOTO include:

• Energy Isolation: Identifying and isolating all energy sources connected to the equipment.
• Lockout Devices: Using locks to secure energy isolation points.
• Tagout Devices: Using tags to indicate that the equipment is locked out and should not be operated.
• Verification: Testing the equipment to ensure it is completely de-energized.
• Authorization: Only authorized personnel can place and remove lockout/tagout devices.

Types of Lockout/Tagout Devices

There are various LOTO devices designed for different types of energy sources and equipment:

1. Padlocks: Used to secure lockout devices in place, ensuring that they cannot be removed without the key.
2. Lockout Hasps: Allow multiple workers to place their locks on a single energy isolation point, ensuring collective safety during group maintenance.
3. Valve Lockouts: Devices specifically designed to lock valves in the off position, preventing the flow of liquids or gases.
4. Circuit Breaker Lockouts: Devices that secure circuit breakers in the off position, ensuring that electrical circuits remain de-energized.
5. Plug Lockouts: Used to lock electrical plugs, preventing them from being plugged into an outlet.
6. Cable Lockouts: Versatile devices that can be used to lock out multiple energy sources simultaneously.
7. Tagout Devices: Tags with warning messages that indicate the equipment is locked out and should not be operated. These tags are attached to energy isolation points using durable materials that can withstand harsh environments.

Types of Lockout Tagout

Real Data on LOTO Effectiveness

Lockout/Tagout procedures have been proven to significantly reduce workplace accidents and injuries. Here are some key statistics demonstrating their effectiveness:

• According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), compliance with LOTO standards prevents an estimated 120 fatalities and 50,000 injuries each year in the United States.
• A study by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) found that implementing LOTO procedures reduces the risk of injuries by 55% in workplaces with high exposure to hazardous energy.
• The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that lockout/tagout violations are consistently among the top 10 most frequently cited OSHA standards, highlighting the importance of proper LOTO implementation.

FAQs

1. What is the purpose of Lockout/Tagout?

The purpose of LOTO is to protect workers from hazardous energy sources during maintenance and servicing of equipment. It ensures that machinery remains inoperative until it is safe to resume work.

2. Who is responsible for implementing Lockout/Tagout procedures?

Employers are responsible for establishing and enforcing LOTO procedures. Authorized personnel, typically maintenance and servicing staff, are responsible for applying and removing lockout/tagout devices.

3. What types of energy sources require Lockout/Tagout?

LOTO is required for all energy sources, including electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, chemical, and thermal energy.

4. Can tagout be used alone without lockout?

Tagout can be used alone only when a lockout is not possible. However, tagout alone does not provide the same level of protection as lockout. OSHA regulations require additional safety measures when using tagout only.

5. How often should Lockout/Tagout procedures be reviewed?

LOTO procedures should be reviewed at least annually to ensure compliance and effectiveness. Regular training and audits are essential for maintaining a safe work environment.

Conclusion

Lockout/Tagout is a critical safety procedure that protects workers from hazardous energy sources during maintenance and servicing activities. By understanding the difference between lockout and tagout, properly defining LOTO, utilizing the appropriate devices, and recognizing the real-world effectiveness of these procedures, companies can create a safer work environment. Regular training and adherence to LOTO standards are essential to prevent accidents and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.

Lockey Safety is committed to providing high-quality lockout/tagout devices that meet industry standards and help companies maintain a safe and compliant workplace. For more information on our products and services, please visit our website or contact our customer support team.

Further Reading

What Is Lockout Tagout?

What is the difference between lockout and tagout?

Which Government Entity Establishes The Requirements For Lockout Tagout?