LOTO
LOTO, which stands for Lock Out/Tag Out, is a critical safety procedure used in industrial and maintenance settings. It's a system that ensures dangerous machines are properly shut off and cannot be started up again before maintenance or repair work is completed. Think of it like taking the keys out of a car and putting a "do not use" sign on it while it's being repaired - but for industrial equipment. This process is required by workplace safety regulations and is a fundamental skill for maintenance workers, industrial mechanics, and facility managers.
Examples in Resumes
Implemented and maintained LOTO procedures for manufacturing equipment
Trained 20+ maintenance staff on proper Lock Out/Tag Out protocols
Conducted monthly LOTO audits and updated safety documentation
Supervised Lockout-Tagout compliance across 3 production facilities
Typical job title: "Maintenance Technicians"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Maintenance Technicians
Professional Organizations
Online Communities
Job Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you develop and implement a LOTO program for a new facility?
Expected Answer: A senior candidate should explain the process of assessing equipment, creating procedures, training employees, maintaining documentation, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations. They should mention involving stakeholders and establishing audit processes.
Q: How do you handle complex LOTO situations involving multiple energy sources?
Expected Answer: Should discuss creating detailed procedures for equipment with multiple power sources, coordinating with different departments, and ensuring clear communication between all workers involved in the maintenance process.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What steps do you take when performing a LOTO procedure?
Expected Answer: Should describe the standard steps: notification, shutdown, isolation, lock and tag application, energy verification, work completion, and safe restart procedures.
Q: How do you train new employees on LOTO procedures?
Expected Answer: Should explain hands-on training methods, documentation review, demonstration of proper techniques, and verification of understanding through practical exercises.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is the purpose of LOTO?
Expected Answer: Should explain that LOTO prevents accidental equipment startup during maintenance to protect worker safety, and mention basic safety rules and requirements.
Q: What personal protective equipment is typically used during LOTO procedures?
Expected Answer: Should list basic safety equipment like locks, tags, and any required personal protective gear, explaining when and how they are used.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic LOTO procedures
- Safety equipment use
- Documentation reading
- Basic maintenance tasks
Mid (2-5 years)
- Complex equipment procedures
- Training other workers
- Procedure documentation
- Safety audit participation
Senior (5+ years)
- Program development
- Safety system implementation
- Team supervision
- Compliance management
Red Flags to Watch For
- No knowledge of basic safety procedures
- Unfamiliarity with OSHA regulations
- Careless attitude toward safety protocols
- Poor documentation practices
- Inability to explain basic LOTO steps
Related Terms
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