lockout

Lockout is a term used in several contexts to describe the temporary withholding of access or activity to a person or facility. In labor relations, a lockout is initiated by an employer to prevent workers from entering the workplace during disputes over wages, benefits, or job terms. The objective is to compel bargaining or protect property and operations when a contract is stalled. Lockouts are generally governed by national or regional labor laws and may be contrasted with strikes, where workers voluntarily cease work to pressure negotiations.

In information technology and security, a lockout refers to preventing access to an account or system after failed authentication attempts or policy violations. Account lockouts help deter unauthorized access but can also disrupt legitimate users if not carefully managed. Common practices include temporary suspensions, progressive delays, or administrator resets, with rules explaining duration and appeal procedures.

Sports leagues may also experience a lockout when owners and players are unable to agree on terms for compensation, rules, or competition. In such cases, operations or games may be postponed or canceled for a period while negotiations continue.

Lockout, often paired with tagout (LOTO), is a safety procedure used in industrial settings to ensure machines or energy sources are isolated during maintenance. Technicians apply physical locks and warning tags to energy sources, verify isolation, and prevent unexpected startup until work is complete and normal conditions are verified.

Lockout policies are designed to protect workers, equipment, and the public, and they require clear procedures, training, and oversight to avoid accidental harm.