Everything you need to know about Lockout Tagout (LOTO)

Welcome to our FAQ section where you will find answers to the most frequently asked questions about Lockout Tagout (LOTO) systems. These systems are key to ensuring the safety of workers during the maintenance and servicing of machines and equipment.

1. Basics of the LOTO system

What exactly does Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) mean?

Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) is a safety procedure that ensures that hazardous equipment and power sources are properly shut down and cannot be accidentally restarted during maintenance or repairs. It consists of two steps:

• Lockout: Physical locking of the power source (eg circuit breaker, valve) by safety padlocks and closure.
• Tagout: Location clearly visible tags, which informs about the work in progress and who is doing it.

The goal is 100% protection of workers against unexpected machine start-up.

Why is the LOTO system important for your business?

The introduction of the LOTO system is one of the most effective ways to prevent serious occupational accidents during maintenance, cleaning or adjustment. This is not a cost, but an investment in the safety of your employees and smooth operations.
The main benefits are:

• Protection of lives and health: Prevents unwanted or unexpected starting of machines during maintenance, cleaning or adjustment, thereby protecting workers from injury.
• Proof of compliance with legislative requirements: The LOTO system is not a mandatory part of occupational safety in the EU, but it significantly and demonstrably helps meet the legal requirements for ensuring occupational safety.
• Damage prevention: Protects expensive equipment from damage due to unwanted handling when the machine is in service mode. Prevents starting a machine or restoring power to a machine that is incomplete.

Is LOTO mandatory by law?

No, the introduction of the LOTO system is not mandatory in the EU. However, the principle of securing machines against unintentional start-up is enshrined in European legislation. Directive 2009/104/EC indirectly supports the LOTO system and its Directive 2009/104/EC indirectly supports the LOTO system and its use as an effective way to ensure safety when working on machinery.  Although the term "Lockout Tagout" may not appear directly in the law, the implementation of a functional system for disconnection and energy security is the best way to reliably fulfill these legal requirements. Our specialist David Klenha has extensive experience in applying this regulation in practice and can help you ensure full compliance.

2. Introduction of LOTO in your company

We want to introduce LOTO. What are the first steps?

Proper implementation of the LOTO system is a process that requires careful preparation. The basic steps are:

1. Risk analysis and audit: Identification of all machines and energy sources that need to be secured.
2. Creation of LOTO guidelines: Creating a written procedure that clearly defines the rules for all employees.
3. Choosing the right elements: Choosing the right locks, closures and tags for your specific devices.
4. Employee training: Training of all affected and authorized workers.

This process can be demanding. With our many years of experience we can help you with every step – from the initial audit to the final training. Contact us for a non-binding consultation. 

How should I choose the right LOTO products?

The choice depends on the type of device you need to secure. It is necessary to consider the type of energy (electricity, gas, compressed air ...), the method of its disconnection (electrical circuit breakers, ball valves, gas cocks ...), the physical dimensions of the disconnector (diameter of the valve rosette or lever, size of the circuit breaker lever, diameter of the lock hole in the main switch ...) and the working environment (e.g. non-conductive shackle locks for electricians, more massive elements for use outdoors or in heavy operations, handling elements with gloves ....).
Not sure? That's perfectly fine. Our range is wide and the choice can be difficult. We will be happy to help you with your selection. Order our initial audit service and we will prepare a tailor-made proposal for you. 

Do you offer other services than just selling products?

Yes, definitely. We want to be your partner for your security. Our services include:

• Comprehensive consultancy and design of LOTO systems.
• Elaboration of corporate LOTO guidelines and procedures.
• Practical help with the implementation and control of the system in operation.
• Employee training tailored to your company.

Our goal is to provide you with a functional solution, not just a box of products. 

3. About our products and e-shop

Why should I choose Lockey brand products?

We did not choose the Lockey brand for our e-shop by chance. After careful research, we chose this specialized manufacturer because its products meet our high demands for quality, reliability in an industrial environment and breadth of assortment, as well as thanks to more than 10 years of company history.  Lockey Safety Products was founded at the beginning of 2015 and holds ISO 9001, ISO 14001 certificates, and because it also cares about the safety of its own employees, it holds the ISO 45001 certificate. Thanks to this, we can offer you proven and certified products that we stand behind.  Our partner's long history also guarantees that we will be able to supply you with locks and keys for your Master key system even in several years.

Why is the e-shop called Lockey.cz, but the operator is Indin, s.r.o.?

This connection is a guarantee of quality and reliability for you. Indin, s.r.o. is a stable Czech company that is your contractual partner and provides all service and advice.
Lockey is the name of our key manufacturer, whose high-end products form the basis of our offer. In this way, you get verified products with the background of a Czech company and a team of experts.

Why is an ID required for a purchase?

Our e-shop is a specialized B2B wholesaler. Our products and professional services are designed for business customers (entrepreneurs and legal entities) to ensure safety in their operations. We therefore do not sell to end consumers. 

We hope this information has helped you better understand the LOTO systems. In case of further questions do not hesitate to contact us