Lock Out Tag Out (LOTO)

What Does Lock Out Tag Out Mean?

Lock Out Tag Out, often abbreviated as LOTO, refers to the safety procedures used to control hazardous energy during the servicing and maintenance of machines or equipment. The term comes from the two key steps in the process: “lockout” (placing a lock on an energy-isolating device to keep it in a safe or “off” position) and “tagout” (attaching a tag to warn others not to restore power).

The concept of LOTO was formalized in the late 1980s when OSHA introduced the Control of Hazardous Energy Standard (29 CFR 1910.147). This regulation was created in response to frequent workplace accidents caused by the unexpected startup of machines or the release of stored energy. Today, Lock Out Tag Out remains one of the most important safety practices in industries such as manufacturing, construction, utilities, and maintenance.

How To Get LOTO Certification?

It’s important to mention that there is technically no such thing as an official “LOTO certification.” OSHA requires employers to provide training so that employees understand hazardous energy control procedures and can apply them correctly in their specific workplace. What most people call “LOTO certification” is really proof that you have completed training in line with OSHA’s standards.

Here’s the typical process:

1. Take a LOTO Training Course: Learn about hazardous energy, lockout/tagout devices, and proper procedures.
2. Pass the Assessment: Demonstrate your understanding through quizzes or a final exam.
3. Earn a Certificate of Completion: This serves as documentation that you’ve been trained, but employers are responsible for ensuring workers are fully qualified.

Lock Out Tag Out Courses Overview

Our Lock Out Tag Out training courses are designed to meet the needs of different roles, industries, and experience levels. Whether you’re a frontline worker needing basic awareness or a supervisor responsible for enforcing procedures, you’ll find a course tailored to your responsibilities. This variety ensures that every team member, from entry-level workers to safety managers, understands their part in preventing accidents.

Learn on your schedule with our fully online, self-paced courses. After signing up, you’ll review learning goals, complete interactive modules, and finish with a final exam. Pass the exam and you’ll instantly earn a digital certificate of completion for your records.

• Every course is designed with OSHA standards in mind, and our dedicated customer support is here to help whenever you need it.
• Refunds may be available for eligible customers. Please review our full Refund Policy page for more details.
• Spanish-language options are available for select courses. Browse our Spanish offerings here.
• Device compatibility information can be found on our System & Browser Requirements page.

If you’re looking to enroll in LOTO training, some of our options we offer include:

Lockout/Tagout Training (General Industry)

Specific to General Industry, this course teaches how to safely lockout and tagout machines during routine equipment maintenance.

OSHA Lockout Tagout (LOTO) Online Training

Based on OSHA industry standards, this course teaches the key methods for controlling hazardous energy during the maintenance and repair of fixed and mobile equipment.