Lock Out Tag Out (LOTO) Training
Failure to isolate machinery correctly before maintenance or repair is one of the most common causes of serious workplace injury, and Lock-Out Tag-Out (LOTO) procedures exist to prevent exactly that. This course gives delegates an in-depth understanding of LOTO principles and practical application, covering energy source identification, isolation methods, the application and removal of lock-out and tag-out devices, and the roles and responsibilities of authorised personnel. On successful completion, delegates receive a certificate of competency.
• Energy sources and stored energy
The difference between residual and stored energy, the range of energy types that must be controlled during isolation - including electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, chemical and thermal - and the specific hazards posed by capacitors, springs, elevated machine parts, flywheels and pressure systems.
• Legal requirements and case studies
The legal framework governing safe isolation and machinery maintenance, and accident case studies illustrating the consequences of inadequate LOTO procedures in practice.
• Isolation methods and LOTO devices
The range of isolators and LOTO devices available - including lock-out devices where isolators are lockable and tag-out devices where they cannot be locked - and how common isolation methods are applied to different energy types.
• LOTO application procedure
The four-stage procedure for applying LOTO: preparing for shutdown, applying lock-out or tag-out devices, treating stored energy and verifying isolation before maintenance or repair begins.
• Single and multiple LOTO applications
How LOTO procedures differ between single-person and multiple-person applications, including handover procedures for isolation over multiple shifts and the controls required when more than one authorised person is involved.
• Removing LOTO and restoring energy
The de-energise, restrain and disconnect procedures required before maintenance begins, and the controlled sequence for removing LOTO devices and safely restoring energy on completion.
• Roles and responsibilities
The duties of authorised personnel in relation to LOTO application and removal, who has authority to act at each stage of the procedure and the controls required when maintenance activities involve multiple contractors or shifts.
• Identifying energy sources for common equipment
How to identify and locate energy sources on a range of common machinery and equipment types, and how this informs the isolation plan before maintenance begins.
• Assessment
Knowledge checks completed at the end of the course.
Classroom-based theory with practical scenarios and case studies, helping learners understand how to apply LOTO safely and comply with legal requirements and best practice.
Maintenance staff, authorised personnel, supervisors and managers responsible for isolating machinery and controlling hazardous energy during maintenance, repair or shutdown activities.
Delegates should have a basic understanding of workplace machinery and safety procedures prior to attending.