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Ensure compliance and safety with lockout tagout procedure checklists for consistent workplace regulation adherence.
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Published 5 Apr 2026
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4 min read
A lockout tagout procedure checklist, also called a LOTO checklist, is a list of steps taken to ensure proper isolation of energy sources when servicing industrial equipment or heavy machinery. This is typically used by safety officers and managers to protect workers against hazards such as accidental energization of equipment or exposure to hazardous energy. Millions of machine operators and workers are exposed to risks each day due to non-isolated energy sources; lockout tagout procedure checklists aim to protect workers from those risks.
Lockout tagout procedures can vary depending on the industry or type of machine or equipment. Following the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) guidelines on lockout tagout procedures by using a procedures template and safety checklist will help ensure that all dangerous machinery and equipment are properly shut off, locked out, and tagged before performing maintenance checks. OSHA estimates that complying with LOTO standards helps prevent 120 fatalities and 50,000 injuries each year.
Here are the main sections of a lockout tagout procedure checklist:
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and Safety Measures – This section covers the required protective gear, emergency equipment, and work areas for the LOTO procedure.
Energy Control Procedures – This section maps out the proper way of locking out energy sources before work begins.
Lockout/Tagout Equipment and Devices – This section looks into the condition and status of locks, tags, and labels used in LOTO.
Verification and Testing – This section involves the energy testing and verification process for strict adherence.
Shift Changes and Group Lockout – This section outlines the steps to carry out in the event of group lockouts and changes in worker shifts.
Equipment Startup and Removal of Lockout Devices – This section runs through the process of removing LOTO devices from the equipment.
Training and Documentation – This section wraps up the template through regular check-ins with the current training and compliance measures for LOTO procedures.
Here are the steps to the proper lockout tagout procedure:
Step 1: Identify and assess – Determine the equipment to shut down, control energy sources, and evaluate hazards.
Step 2: Notify personnel – Inform affected staff about the shutdown, including details, timeframe, and contacts.
Step 3: Shut down equipment – Follow proper procedures to turn off controls and stop all moving parts.
Step 4: Disconnect energy sources – Isolate the equipment by shutting off power breakers or closing valves.
Step 5: Remove residual energy – Neutralize stored energy to eliminate potential hazards.
Step 6: Lock and tag equipment – Secure the equipment with locks and tags displaying identifying information.
Step 7: Verify isolation – Test controls to confirm the equipment does not activate.
Know more about these steps in this comprehensive guide to the Lockout Tagout procedure.
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A LOTO inspection can only be conducted by a safety supervisor or authorized employee who is NOT involved in the lock out tag out procedure being inspected. It must be done at least annually or more often if necessary.
To conduct a LOTO inspection, the safety supervisor or authorized employee must do the following:
Identify the equipment or isolation point that the LOTO procedure is for, as well as the energy sources connected to said equipment.
Specify the date of and the employees included in the LOTO inspection.
Check if the employee follows the equipment shutdown procedures established in the checklist.
Verify if all energy sources are neutralized, not just switched off at the control panel.
Spot and correct the deviations and inadequacies of the LOTO procedure.
Review the responsibilities of authorized and affected employees for lockout, tagout, and training.
Confirm the completion of LOTO inspection by adding your name and signature.
For your reference, here’s an example of a filled-out lockout tagout procedure report in PDF format:
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