When training on LOTO, what are the core topics to focus on?

When training on lockout/tagout (LOTO) procedures, several core topics should be focused on to ensure that employees have a thorough understanding of the procedures and can perform them safely. Here are some of the key topics that should be covered in LOTO training:

1. The purpose and importance of LOTO procedures:  Employees should be made aware of why LOTO procedures are necessary and how they help protect workers from releasing hazardous energy.
2. The specific procedures and techniques used by the employer to control hazardous energy: Employees should be provided with detailed instructions on how to properly shut off, disconnect, lockout, and tag out machinery and equipment.
3. The related hazards and how to identify them: Employees should be trained to recognize the hazards associated with LOTO procedures, such as the potential for machine start-up, release of stored energy, or unintended movement of machinery parts.
4. The proper use of LOTO equipment and devices: Employees should be trained to use the specific LOTO equipment or devices provided by the employer, such as padlocks, valve wheel covers, and energy-isolating devices.
5. Emergency procedures: Employees should be trained on what to do in case of an unexpected startup or other emergency, such as alarm systems, signaling and communication methods, and the proper procedures for dealing with the emergency situation.
6. Documentation and record keeping: Employees should be trained on the proper documentation and record-keeping procedures related to LOTO, including inspection, maintenance, testing, and training records.
7. Compliance with OSHA regulations: Employees should be made aware of OSHA regulations related to LOTO and the importance of compliance.

In summary, when training on lockout/tagout (LOTO) procedures, the core topics to focus on are the purpose and importance of LOTO, the specific procedures and techniques used by the employer, the related hazards, the proper use of LOTO equipment and devices, emergency procedures, documentation and record keeping and compliance with OSHA regulations. It’s also important to provide training in a format and language that the employees can understand and to allow them to ask questions and receive answers.

Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) Training (OSHA 1910.147)