Lockout/Tagout (Hazardous Energy Control)

"Lockout/Tagout" or "LOTO" refers to specific practices and procedures to safeguard employees from the unexpected energization or startup of machinery and equipment, or the release of hazardous energy during service or maintenance activities.

TWU has developed a written program that establishes the minimum requirements for the control of hazardous energy and is applicable to the maintenance or service of equipment, machines, or systems. The program requires the development of specific written procedures for each piece of equipment, machine, or system (with some limited exemptions), identifying all sources of hazardous energy and how to properly control them prior to beginning work.

No TWU employees may perform maintenance or service work on any equipment, machines, or systems without appropriate Lockout/Tagout classroom and hands-on training. Faculty, staff, and students are prohibited from attempting to start any equipment, machines, or systems that have been locked out; and from removing any locks or tags that have been placed by other employees or contractors.

For more information, refer to the full Lockout/Tagout Program (PDF) as well as an Example Machine-Specific Procedure.