What does Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) procedures ensure?

Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) procedures are vital safety protocols designed to ensure that machinery is properly shut off and cannot be started up again until maintenance or servicing is complete. This is crucial in preventing accidental machine start-up while maintenance activities are being conducted, which can lead to serious injuries or fatalities. The LOTO process involves isolating energy sources and placing locks and tags on equipment to clearly indicate that it should not be operated. This helps create a safe working environment for maintenance personnel by eliminating the risk of unexpected energization or start-up of machines.

The other options, such as accounting for personnel, ensuring appropriate safety gear is worn, and having evacuation plans in place, while important aspects of workplace safety, do not specifically pertain to the Lockout/Tagout procedures. These actions address different safety protocols and do not focus on the control of hazardous energy during machine servicing.