LOTOtoimenpiteet

LOTOtoimenpiteet, an abbreviation for Lockout/Tagout procedures, are safety protocols designed to prevent accidental startup or release of stored energy in machinery and equipment during maintenance, servicing, or repair. The primary goal of LOTO is to protect workers from serious injury or death caused by unexpected energization.

These procedures involve a series of steps. First, the affected employee must identify all energy sources, including electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, chemical, and thermal. Then, the equipment must be properly shut down and de-energized. Following shutdown, a locking device, such as a padlock, is applied to each energy isolating device to ensure it cannot be operated. A tag is then attached to the lock, identifying the worker who applied it and the reason for the lockout.

Before starting any work, the employee must verify that all energy has been isolated and dissipated by attempting to start the equipment or by using testing equipment. The lockout devices remain in place until the maintenance or servicing is complete and the equipment is ready to be returned to normal operation. At that point, the authorized employee removes their lock and tag, and the equipment can be re-energized.

LOTO procedures are critical in many industries, including manufacturing, construction, and utilities, where machinery poses significant hazards. Proper training and adherence to these safety measures are essential for maintaining a safe work environment. Employers are responsible for establishing and enforcing LOTO programs, and employees must be trained to recognize and follow these procedures.