PROC-017 | Lock Out / Tag Out (LOTO) Procedure | Version 1.0 | February 2026

Purpose

To prevent the unexpected energisation, start-up, or release of stored energy of machinery or equipment during maintenance, cleaning, or repair activities.

Scope

All workers who perform maintenance, cleaning, or repair on machinery or equipment at [YOUR BUSINESS NAME].

When LOTO is Required

LOTO must be applied whenever:

Performing maintenance or repair on machinery

Clearing jams or blockages in machinery

Cleaning machinery where contact with moving parts is possible

Any task where unexpected start-up could cause injury

LOTO Procedure

Step 1 — Notify: Inform all affected workers that the equipment is being taken out of service. Step 2 — Identify energy sources: Identify all energy sources for the equipment (electrical, pneumatic, hydraulic, gravity, stored mechanical energy). Step 3 — Isolate: Shut down the equipment using the normal stopping procedure. Isolate all energy sources using the appropriate isolation device (circuit breaker, valve, etc.). Step 4 — Lock out: Apply a personal padlock to each isolation point. Each worker working on the equipment must apply their own padlock. Step 5 — Tag out: Attach a "DANGER — DO NOT OPERATE" tag to each isolation point. The tag must include the worker's name, date, and reason for isolation. Step 6 — Release stored energy: Release or restrain all stored energy (e.g., bleed pneumatic lines, lower suspended parts, discharge capacitors). Step 7 — Verify: Attempt to start the equipment to verify it cannot be energised. Check that all energy sources are isolated. Step 8 — Perform work. Step 9 — Restore: When work is complete, remove all tools and materials. Replace all guards. Remove padlocks and tags (each worker removes their own). Notify affected workers before re-energising.

NEVER Do This

Never remove another person's padlock or tag.

Never work on equipment without applying LOTO.

Never assume equipment is de-energised without verifying.

Related Documents: POL-013 | Legislation: WHS Regulation 2011 (Qld) Part 5.1; AS 4024.1603