Page 28 - OHS, November/December 2021

LOCKOUT/TAGOUT
Taking a Deep Dive into the World of LOTO
Procedures must keep pace with industry 4.0 smart manufacturing.
BY DEREK HALE
When it comes to taking the important first step in setting up your energy control procedures (OSHA’s lockout/tagout standard 1910.147), the sky is the limit. Lockout/tagout (LOTO) is a key safety program when working with any power source including electricity, hydraulic pressure, pneumatic pressure, water pressure, thermal energy and even pyrophoric chemicals that combust upon contact with the air. As companies dive deep into the world of LOTO, their approach is usually comprehensive. What separates the rare few greats from the rest of the overworked industry is how the program proceeds from that point forward.
■ As facilities are upgraded, are LOTO procedures updated to reflect these changes?
■ Are specific isolation valves and electrical disconnects put in place for each new production line?
■ Are annual evaluations being conducted?
The answer to that last question is frequently: No. Not many companies follow up on their annual evaluations, and only a fraction bring in a fresh set of qualified eyes to ensure the process is optimally completed. Why? Because the annual evaluation process tends to become yet another task for overworked safety professionals.
28 Occupational Health & Safety | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021 www.ohsonline.com