LO/TO Program Basics

If their employees could be exposed to hazardous energy during equipment service or maintenance, employers are required to establish a Lockout/Tagout Program. (Also known as a Hazardous Energy Control Program.)

Every program should include the following details, tailored to the specific needs of the workplace:

• Energy control procedures:
• Disconnect sources of energy to the equipment.
• Use lockout/tagout devices on energy-isolating devices to prevent re-energization.
• Control stored or potentially re-accumulated energy.
• Employee training: Employees must understand the program-- how it affects their work and how to follow it. (See Training page.)
• Periodic inspection and review: Energy control procedures must be reviewed and inspected annually to ensure that they:
• Are being followed.
• Are still effective in preventing employees from being exposed to hazardous energy.
• Meet the requirements of 29 CFR 1910.147.