What is the main purpose of a lockout/tagout policy?

The main purpose of a lockout/tagout policy is to secure machinery from accidental operation. This practice is essential in ensuring the safety of workers who are performing maintenance or repair tasks on equipment. By locking and tagging out machinery, workers can effectively prevent the equipment from being powered on or activated unexpectedly, reducing the risk of injuries or accidents.

This policy is particularly important in environments where heavy machinery is used, as it creates a clear and controlled procedure for isolating energy sources. It helps to communicate to all employees that maintenance work is being done and that the machinery should remain inactive until the work is completed and the locks are removed by the authorized personnel.

While preventing theft, keeping tools organized, and monitoring water usage can be important in their respective contexts, they are not the primary objectives of a lockout/tagout policy. The focus of such a policy is firmly on safety and the controlled management of equipment operations during maintenance.