Tagout, often referred to as a critical component of lockout/tagout (LOTO) procedures, is a vital safety protocol used across industries to prevent accidents during equipment maintenance or repair. When properly implemented, Tagout ensures that workers are protected from the accidental release of hazardous energy sources such as electricity, mechanical power, or compressed air. This article will explore the significance of Tagout in ensuring workplace safety, its application, and how it can help minimize workplace injuries.
What is Tagout? Tagout is a safety procedure used primarily in industrial settings where workers must isolate and de-energize equipment to prevent accidental start-up or release of hazardous energy during maintenance or servicing. Unlike the lockout procedure, which involves physically locking energy-isolating devices to prevent operation, Tagout relies on using warning tags to indicate that a piece of equipment should not be operated. These tags serve as a visual reminder to others that maintenance is underway and that the equipment should remain inoperative. The Role of Tagout in Worker Safety