LOTO Procedure: Working Safely with Locking and Labeling
What is Lockout-Tagout (LOTO)?
Lockout-Tagout (LOTO) is a safety procedure essential for protecting employees from hazardous energy sources during maintenance or repair of machinery and equipment. Properly locking out and tagging energy sources prevents fatalities and serious injuries.
Why is LOTO Essential for Your Safety?
Performing work on machinery without proper LOTO procedures leads to serious accidents and work-related disability every year. According to the Inspectorate SZW, unexpected machine activations are a leading cause of industrial accidents in the Netherlands. With the correct LOTO materials and procedures, these accidents can be completely prevented.
Step-by-step LOTO Procedure
1. Preparation and Communication
Before starting work, it's crucial to inform all involved employees. Clearly communicate which system will be shut down, why, and how long the work is expected to take.
2. Identifying and Disconnecting Energy Sources
Inventory all energy sources involved in the installation:
- Electrical energy (main switches, fuses)
- Mechanical energy (moving parts, springs, counterweights)
- Hydraulic pressure (fluid pressure systems)
- Pneumatic pressure (compressed air systems)
- Thermal energy (hot or cold surfaces)
- Chemical energy (hazardous substances)
Systematically turn off all identified energy sources according to the prescribed procedure for each specific energy source.
3. Locking with LOTO Materials
- Place a lockout hasp on the energy source
- Attach your personal safety padlock to the lock hasp
- With multiple technicians: each employee places his own padlock on the same lock hasp
- Always keep your key with you – never give it away!
Important: Every employee working on the system must install their own lock. The system cannot be put back into service until all padlocks have been removed.
4. Verification of Zero Energy Status
- Test the installation to verify that all energy sources are actually turned off
- Try starting the machine with normal controls
- Check measuring equipment to confirm that no residual energy is present
- Discharge any stored energy (capacitors, hydraulic accumulators)
5. Marking with LOTO Labels
- Attach a "DO NOT OPERATE" label to each locked energy source
- Make sure that the label clearly states:
- Name of the employee
- Date and time of locking
- Emergency contact information
- Reason for the lockdown
High-quality LOTO products for maximum safety
In our webshop you will find all the necessary materials for an effective LOTO procedure:
- Safety Padlocks - Available in various colors for personal identification
- Lock multipliers - For situations where multiple employees work on the same installation
- LOTO labels - Sustainable labels that contain essential information
- Locking systems - Specific solutions for electrical, pneumatic and hydraulic systems
- LOTO stations - Central storage for all your LOTO materials
- Complete LOTO kits - All-in-one solutions for specific applications
Benefits of Our LOTO Products
- Certified Quality - All our products meet the strictest Dutch and European safety standards
- Durable Materials - Resistant to industrial conditions, chemicals and extreme temperatures
- Easy to use - Easy to apply, even with gloves
- Cost-effective - Protect your workforce and comply with legislation at minimal cost
Legal Requirements and Compliance
Implementing LOTO procedures is not only a matter of safety, but also a legal obligation under the Working Conditions Act and the Working Conditions Decree, Article 3.5. Employers are required to:
- To implement adequate LOTO procedures
- Provide employees with suitable LOTO materials
- To provide regular training on the correct application of LOTO
- To document and keep LOTO procedures up to date
Our products help you to be fully compliant with all relevant legislation and guidelines.
Euronorm.net can help you with this too!
Contact Our LOTO Experts
Do you have questions about the correct LOTO procedure for your specific situation? Contact us!
