Lockout/tag out (LOTO) procedures are used by workers in mine hoist plants underground to ensure that energy controls are kept in an “off” or safe position during maintenance and service work and that electrical currents are turned off.
LOTO is immensely important because without it, equipment could continue to run for various reasons, even after it is turned off. The following incidents may occur:
Even though an employee performing maintenance on a piece of equipment has turned it off, there is no indication that he or she is going to be inspecting the machine, unless it is locked out and tagged.
Ontario has around 40 underground mines with nearly 25,000 workers—this translates into thousands of opportunities for LOTO failure in Ontario alone if employees are not properly trained or if they do not follow the correct procedures. Considering how many more mine workers there are across Canada, the importance of workers knowing LOTO safety is paramount to keep everyone on the job site uninjured. In addition, as increasingly complex technology makes its way into the mining industry, LOTO procedures are even more essential in mine hoist plants.
Basic Lockout Procedures
It is important workers follow the steps below to protect themselves:
Only the Tagger Can Untag
It is important to remember that only the person who originally attached them should remove the tag and lockout device. The on-duty supervisor—and only the supervisor—may remove these devices in case of illness or absence of the person who attached them, but this must be clearly communicated.
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