Lockout/Tagout
Lockout/Tagout (often abbreviated as LOTO) is a safety procedure used in industrial and manufacturing settings to ensure dangerous machines are properly shut off and can't be started up again before maintenance or repair work is completed. Think of it like a very strict system of "checking out" equipment for maintenance - similar to how a library tracks borrowed books. Workers place special locks and warning tags on equipment controls, making sure nobody can accidentally turn on machines while others are working on them. This is one of the most important safety procedures in industrial workplaces and is strictly regulated by safety organizations like OSHA.
Examples in Resumes
Trained 50+ maintenance staff on proper Lockout/Tagout procedures
Developed and implemented LOTO program compliant with OSHA standards
Conducted monthly Lockout-Tagout compliance audits across 3 manufacturing facilities
Updated Lockout/Tagout procedures for newly installed equipment
Typical job title: "Safety Specialists"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Safety Specialists
Professional Organizations
Online Communities
Job Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you develop and implement a company-wide Lockout/Tagout program?
Expected Answer: A strong answer should cover creating written procedures, training programs, audit processes, ensuring OSHA compliance, and methods for updating procedures when new equipment is installed.
Q: How do you handle resistance to Lockout/Tagout procedures from production staff worried about downtime?
Expected Answer: Should discuss balancing production needs with safety requirements, education about legal requirements and safety importance, and strategies for minimizing impact on production while maintaining safety.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What are the essential steps in a Lockout/Tagout procedure?
Expected Answer: Should explain the basic steps: notification of affected employees, shutdown, isolation, lock and tag application, stored energy release, verification of isolation, and proper removal procedures.
Q: How do you conduct a Lockout/Tagout audit?
Expected Answer: Should describe reviewing written procedures, checking proper lock and tag use, observing employee practices, documenting findings, and following up on corrective actions.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is the difference between a lock and a tag in Lockout/Tagout?
Expected Answer: Should explain that locks physically prevent equipment operation, while tags are warning devices that provide information about who applied the lock and why the equipment is locked out.
Q: When is Lockout/Tagout required?
Expected Answer: Should mention maintenance, repair, cleaning, clearing jams, or any activity requiring workers to place body parts in dangerous areas of machines.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic understanding of LOTO procedures
- Ability to follow written safety protocols
- Knowledge of common industrial equipment
- Basic documentation skills
Mid (2-5 years)
- Development of LOTO procedures
- Training other workers on LOTO
- Conducting safety audits
- Understanding OSHA requirements
Senior (5+ years)
- Program development and implementation
- Managing facility-wide safety systems
- Incident investigation and resolution
- Safety program budgeting
Red Flags to Watch For
- Unfamiliarity with OSHA regulations
- Casual attitude toward safety procedures
- No hands-on experience with industrial equipment
- Unable to explain basic LOTO steps
Related Terms
Need more hiring wisdom? Check these out...
Navigating Compliance: Structuring On-the-Job Training in Regulated Industries
Navigating the Legal Labyrinth: Unpacking Global Labor Laws for Transnational Teams
Stop the Turnover Epidemic: Proven Tactics Every HR Leader Must Know
