Why Lockout/Tagout Matters in Construction
Failure to control hazardous energy causes an estimated 120 fatalities and 50,000 injuries per year in the United States. OSHA's Lockout/Tagout standard (29 CFR 1910.147) consistently ranks among the top 10 most-cited standards, with penalties reaching $16,550 per serious violation in 2026.
In construction, LOTO applies to equipment maintenance, electrical work, mechanical systems, and any servicing activity where unexpected energization could cause injury. This guide covers everything you need to know to build a compliant LOTO program.
> Free Tool: Use our [LOTO Procedure Generator](/tools/loto-procedure-generator) to create machine-specific energy control procedures in minutes.
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What Is Lockout/Tagout?
Lockout is the placement of a lock on an energy-isolating device to prevent energization. Tagout is the placement of a warning tag on the device. Together, they form the energy control procedure that protects workers during servicing and maintenance.
Key Definitions
| Term | Definition |
|------|-----------|
| Energy-isolating device | A mechanical device that physically prevents the transmission or release of energy (circuit breakers, disconnect switches, valves) |
| Lockout device | A device that uses a positive means (lock) to hold an energy-isolating device in a safe position |
| Tagout device | A prominent warning tag attached to an energy-isolating device |
| Authorized employee | A person who locks out or tags out equipment for servicing |
| Affected employee | A person whose job requires operating equipment that is locked/tagged out |
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The 6 Types of Hazardous Energy
Every LOTO procedure must address all energy sources present in the equipment. Missing even one source can result in fatal injuries.
1. Electrical Energy ⚡
The most common energy type in construction. Includes: