Maintenance, Repair & Operations

Lockout/Tagout: Doing it Efficiently

Oct. 15, 2019

Tips for streamlining the LOTO process

A big drawback to lockout/tagout is the time required to identify all of the energy sources for a given job. And such identification is sometimes incomplete, decreasing safety.

But it doesn't have to be this way. It's this way because typically the identification process is a duplication of labor. Each time some equipment is worked on, the person doing that work repeats the identification process as if it's never been done before. Doing custom work for a repeated output is costly and increases the chance of error.

Barcode or Q-code every asset, so a worker can scan the code and read on his phone or other device a list of energy sources to lock out (and where they are). Such a system is easy to implement. When equipment is locked out for the first time, perform a thorough review to ensure accuracy and completeness. Then enter the information into the computerized maintenance management system (CMMS).

If equipment is modified, tag the lockout/tagout information “incomplete” and schedule a review; update as needed.

About the Author

Mark Lamendola

Mark is an expert in maintenance management, having racked up an impressive track record during his time working in the field. He also has extensive knowledge of, and practical expertise with, the National Electrical Code (NEC). Through his consulting business, he provides articles and training materials on electrical topics, specializing in making difficult subjects easy to understand and focusing on the practical aspects of electrical work.

Prior to starting his own business, Mark served as the Technical Editor on EC&M for six years, worked three years in nuclear maintenance, six years as a contract project engineer/project manager, three years as a systems engineer, and three years in plant maintenance management.

Mark earned an AAS degree from Rock Valley College, a BSEET from Columbia Pacific University, and an MBA from Lake Erie College. He’s also completed several related certifications over the years and even was formerly licensed as a Master Electrician. He is a Senior Member of the IEEE and past Chairman of the Kansas City Chapters of both the IEEE and the IEEE Computer Society. Mark also served as the program director for, a board member of, and webmaster of, the Midwest Chapter of the 7x24 Exchange. He has also held memberships with the following organizations: NETA, NFPA, International Association of Webmasters, and Institute of Certified Professional Managers.