Page 50 - OHS, July/August 2024

TRAINING: LOCKOUT/TAGOUT
S
S
H
?
e
et
o
tt
w
d
t
i
in
n
o
c
o
c
BY HERBERT POST
g
ga
o
o
a
N
m
m
N
p
p
a
a
e
e
w
n
n
wS
i
i
e
e
s
t
s
t
S
r
r
a
a
a
a
f
fe
i
i
et
n
e
n
e
t
y
y
S
m
m
St
p
p
l
l
t
o
o
a
a
y
y
n
nd
e
e
e
e
da
s
i
s
i
a
n
t
n
t
r
rd
d
w
h
h
i
i
wi
s
i
s
i
i
t
th
m
m
hD
p
p
o
o
Di
r
r
t
t
ig
a
a
gi
n
n
i
t
t
t
t
t
ta
al
e
e
fi
fi
lL
c
c
c
ci
h
h
Lo
i
a
a
n
n
o
l
ls
o
o
c
ck
sa
l
l
a
o
o
k
f
f
g
g
o
ou
e
et
i
i
ty
c
c
u
y
e
a
a
t
t
/
/T
en
l
s
l
s
nh
Ta
ha
h
h
i
i
ag
a
ft
ft
g
n
n
?
c
o
D
t
Di
i
g
g
i
it
ta
al
lL
L
O
OT
TO
O
s
s
y
y
s
st
te
e
m
ms
s
a
a
n
n
d
dp
p
r
ro
oc
c
e
e
d
d
u
u
r
r
e
es
s
a
ar
re
ed
dr
ri
i
v
v
i
in
n
g
g
b
b
e
en
n
e
e
o
ce
u
ut
em
m
e
en
H
ts.
o
w
d
nt
The transformation of traditional LOTO practices into digital lockout tagout systems is revolutionizing workplace safety. This shift aims to enhance efficiency and minimize errors in the lockout tagout procedure. It’s a response to the rising need for better safety standards.
One reason for this transformation could be the increasing number of cited violations for lockout tagout. According to OS- HA’s Top 10 Most Cited Standards, cited violations for lockout/ta- gout increased from 2,139 in 2022 to 2,539 in 2023, maintaining its position as the 6th most cited. This indicates a persistent issue that needs a modern solution.
Another reason is the challenges and limitations of traditional lockout tagout. These include:
■ Human error: Mistakes in manual processes can lead to ac- cidents.
■ Time-consuming processes: Traditional methods often take longer, affecting productivity.
■ Inadequate documentation: Keeping track of LOTO events manually can lead to incomplete records.
■ Compliance difficulties: Ensuring all procedures meet reg- ulations can be harder with manual systems.
■ Limited monitoring: Traditional LOTO lacks real-time oversight, making it harder to spot issues quickly.
48 Occupational Health & Safety | JULY/AUGUST 2024
What is Digital LOTO?
Digital lockout tagout is an advanced system that uses digital tech- nology to enhance the traditional lockout tagout procedure for im- proved safety and efficiency.
Key features of digital lockout tagout systems include real-time monitoring, automated documentation, and remote access. These systems allow safety managers to track LOTO activities in real- time, ensuring immediate response to any issues. They automati- cally record every lockout event, reducing the risk of incomplete records. Additionally, managers can access and control LOTO systems remotely, providing flexibility and quick action. These sys- tems are also designed to easily meet regulatory standards, simpli- fying audits and inspections.
Benefits of Digital Lockout Tagout Procedures
Enhanced safety and efficiency: Digital lockout tagout systems im- prove overall safety by reducing risks associated with manual errors. They also streamline the lockout tagout procedure, saving time and increasing productivity. For example, if a machine needs maintenance, a worker can quickly initiate a digital LOTO procedure. The system ensures all safety steps are followed automatically, and the machine is safely locked out in minutes, reducing downtime and potential hazards.
Real-time monitoring and reporting: Digital LOTO systems of- www.ohsonline.com