What is "Lockout-Tagout"?

Lockout-Tagout (LOTO) is a safety procedure for servicing equipment that ensures hazardous energy sources are de-energized and cannot be re-energized while someone is working. The worker isolates the energy source (electrical breaker, valve, etc.), applies a physical lock so it cannot be turned on, and attaches a tag identifying who locked it out and why. Each authorized worker applies their own lock, and only that person removes it. This prevents accidental startup or unexpected release of stored energy (electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, thermal) that could injure or kill. It is a formal, OSHA-regulated process in industrial maintenance.