Cutting power is the most effective way to mitigate risk. Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) for electrical systems prevents every conveyor, shrink-wrap machine, and charging station from starting unexpectedly while personnel work inside the guard. It’s a simple promise: no voltage, no surprise. Break that promise, and the motor doesn’t care who’s in the pinch zone.

LOTO begins before the breaker handle moves and ends only when every lock is released in the correct order. The steps appear routine, yet skipping one can cause a live circuit to be activated or leave hidden energy in a capacitor. Treat the procedure like a flight checklist, because both protect lives and expensive equipment.

• Follow the book every time. Use the posted LOTO procedure word-for-word. Shortcuts invite errors and confuse the next shift.
• Prove zero. After isolating, use a calibrated meter to confirm that the voltage reads zero before hands or tools cross the guard. Test the tester on a live source first and after the check.
• Limit locks to the trained. Only employees on the authorized roster are permitted to hang locks or tags. Visitors and new hires observe but refrain from touching.
• Respect personal locks. Never remove or bypass someone else’s device. Each lock equals a life. Track down the person or a supervisor if a lock blocks startup.
• Tag with clarity. Write your full name, department, date, and phone on every tag. Precise contact info speeds coordination when multiple crews share the same panel.

A solid LOTO program stops more than shocks. It prevents sudden motion that can crush, cut, or eject parts. It also protects assets; an unexpected restart can wipe out hours of production and damage motors beyond repair.

One of the top priorities of a solid Safety Culture is ensuring the well-being of everyone, both inside and outside the workplace. LOTO embodies that priority by forcing a pause and a double-check before anyone reaches into energized gear. Keep procedures visible, meters calibrated, and training records up to date. Your consistency keeps the switch between safe and dangerous firmly in the off position.

Thank you for joining us for another episode of Warehouse Safety Tips.

Until we meet next time – have a great week, and STAY SAFE!