What is the Difference Between Lock Out and Tag Out?

Lockout and tagout (LOTO) are two separate but related safety procedures that are used to control hazardous energy and prevent accidents while working on machinery and equipment.

Lockout refers to the physical act of putting a lock on an energy isolating device, such as a breaker or valve, to prevent the release of stored energy. This is typically done by an authorized employee who attaches a personal lockout device, such as a padlock or hasp, to the energy isolating device. This physically blocks the release of energy, and only the person who attached the lock can remove it, once the work is completed.

Tagout refers to the practice of placing a tag on an energy isolating device, such as a breaker or valve, to indicate that it should not be operated. The tag is usually a brightly colored, durable material that is attached to the energy isolating device and provides a warning that the machinery or equipment is not to be operated. Tagout is often used in conjunction with lockout, as an added measure of safety, to ensure that employees are aware that the machinery or equipment is not to be operated.

In summary, lockout is the physical act of isolating the energy source by using a personal lock, while tagout is the process of warning that the equipment should not be operated by using tags. Both are important procedures in LOTO and are used together to prevent accidents and injuries while working on machinery and equipment.