When should electrical equipment be locked out during maintenance or repair?

Locking out electrical equipment during maintenance or repair is critical for ensuring the safety of employees who are working on or near live electrical equipment. This practice is part of the Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) procedures, which are designed to prevent accidental energization or the release of stored energy while maintenance or repair work is being performed.

When employees are engaged in work that involves direct interaction with electrical equipment—especially when there is a risk of coming into contact with electrical currents—locking out the equipment eliminates the possibility of it being unexpectedly energized. This precaution protects workers from serious injuries or fatalities that could result from electrical shock or arc flash incidents.

Conducting lockout procedures only during routine checks, during lunch breaks, or when equipment is faulty could leave employees exposed to unnecessary risks. For instance, locking out only during routine checks might overlook situations where unintentional interaction with energized equipment occurs. Likewise, it is crucial that all maintenance operations adhere to consistent safety protocols rather than rely on the condition or perceived status of the equipment. Therefore, locking out electrical equipment whenever employees are working on or near it is essential for maintaining workplace safety.