OSHA Lockout Tagout Standard

The OSHA Lockout Tagout Standard, formerly 29 cfr 1910.147, outlines the legal requirements for controlling hazardous energy while servicing and maintaining machinery and equipment. This document is critical in preventing workplace injuries caused by the unexpected energization, startup, or release of stored energy.

NFPA 70E Arc Flash Training

CSA Z462 Arc Flash Training

Request a Free Training Quotation

It applies to a wide range of energy sources, including electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, chemical, and thermal systems. Employers must develop and enforce an energy control program that includes training for authorized employees, proper use of LOTO devices, and periodic inspections to ensure ongoing compliance. Understanding and implementing the OSHA Lockout Tagout Standard is essential for maintaining electrical safety and protecting workers across industrial settings. Read this page for more detailed information about OSHA Lockout Tagout Requirements.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) established 29 CFR 1910.147 to protect workers who service or maintain machines or equipment capable of hazardous energy LOTO. The regulation requires employers to develop energy control programs that ensure all servicing activities are performed safely. These programs must include clearly defined practices and procedures for shutting down, isolating, and securing hazardous energy sources to prevent unexpected startup or the release of hazardous energy during servicing and maintenance. Our OSHA Lockout Tagout Page gives a general overview of the administration's overall objectives.

To remain compliant, employers must ensure workers are trained to recognize hazardous energy risks and understand how to apply LOTO devices to disable machinery before servicing begins properly. The rules apply to a variety of energy sources, including electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, and pneumatic systems. Without proper practices and procedures, the failure to isolate energy sources could result in severe injury or death. OSHA mandates that each piece of equipment has a written procedure to ensure consistency and safety when working with machines or equipment that pose potential energy hazards.

The official OSHA regulation for Lockout Tagout is:

29 CFR 1910.147 – The Control of Hazardous Energy (Lockout/Tagout)

This page provides the full text of the regulation, including definitions, scope, application, procedures, training, and enforcement requirements.

Energy Control Programs: Core of the OSHA Standard

Under this regulation, employers must develop and implement a documented energy control program. This program must include specific procedures for shutting down and isolating equipment, applying LOTO devices, and verifying that energy has been effectively controlled before work begins. The purpose is to ensure that workers are never exposed to uncontrolled hazardous energy during routine or non-routine service.

Authorized vs Affected Employees

A key distinction in the OSHA Lockout Tagout Standard is the designation of authorized employees—those who apply and remove LOTO devices—and affected employees—those who operate or use the equipment being serviced. OSHA mandates that each group receive appropriate training tailored to their responsibilities. Refresher training and periodic audits are also required to ensure the effectiveness of the overall program.

Types of Hazardous Energy Covered by OSHA

The rules in energy lockout tagout 29 cfr 1910.147 recognize various forms of hazardous energy, including electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, chemical, and thermal. It applies wherever energy could be unexpectedly released during maintenance tasks. Lockout (the placement of a physical locking device) is the preferred method of control. LOTO may only be used if the equipment cannot be locked out, and only with additional protective measures.

Documentation and Inspection Requirements

Importantly, OSHA’s regulation emphasizes documentation and enforcement. Employers must maintain written procedures for each piece of equipment or system where energy control is necessary. In addition, an annual inspection of both the procedures and the performance of authorized employees is mandatory. Noncompliance can result in significant penalties, including OSHA citations and fines.

Who Must Comply with the OSHA LOTO Standard?

The LOTO Standard is not limited to manufacturing. It also applies to construction, utility maintenance, and even machinery or electrical systems service industries. Although the regulation provides a federal baseline, some U.S. states with their own OSHA-approved plans may impose more stringent requirements. Canadian employers often align with CSA Z460, but the principles of energy control are consistent across both jurisdictions.

Complying with the LOTO Standard is not optional for any organization with energized equipment; it’s a critical part of a safe and legally compliant workplace. Establishing a robust LOTO program reduces risk, ensures regulatory compliance, and reinforces a safety culture that protects workers and operational integrity.