Procedure for removing LOTOTO devices

• Posted on 10 January 2023
• 0

Everyone knows the importance of properly locking and tagging a machine when they are going to carry out maintenance or cleaning work. But do you also know the importance of properly removing the used Lockout-Tagout materials afterwards?

After carrying out work on a machine, the used Lockout-Tagout materials must be removed and the machine must be returned to its working position. To do this safely, use the following procedure.

1. Inspect the area to ensure that non-essential tools have been removed and that all personnel are away from the machine or installation.
2. Inspect the machine or installation to ensure that all parts are operationally intact.
3. Inform the affected staff that all Lockout-Tagout devices are going to be removed and that the machine or installation will be ready to be reactivated.
4. Each authorized employee must remove their own lockout and/or tagout device.
*Employees may only remove their own lockout and/or tagout device and NOT that of another employee.
5. The machine or installation can now be reactivated.

It is always possible that an authorized employee is not available or present to remove their lockout and/or tagout material. This Lockout-Tagout can then be removed under the supervision of the employees Area Supervisor.

A safety supervisor should provide specific training and documented procedures for these circumstances. This documentation must demonstrate that the safety is equivalent to the original process whereby only the authorized employee is allowed to remove his lockout and/or tagout device.

This procedure should include at least the following elements.
- Verification by the Area supervisor that the authorized employee who placed the lockout and/or tagout device is not in the factory/on the premises.
- All possible efforts are made to inform the authorized employee that his or her lockout and/or tagout device is being removed.
- It is ensured that the authorized employee is informed that his or her lockout and / or tagout device has been removed before resuming work in the factory / on the premises.