What is the primary focus of lockout/tagout procedures?

Lockout/tagout procedures are primarily designed to protect workers during maintenance or servicing of machinery and equipment. These procedures ensure that energy sources—such as electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, or thermal—are properly isolated and rendered inoperative before any maintenance is performed. This is critical for preventing accidental start-up or release of hazardous energy that could cause serious injuries or even fatalities.

Focusing on worker protection, these procedures involve using locks and tags to clearly signal that equipment should not be operated. This practice creates a safe environment for maintenance personnel by reducing the risk of exposure to dangerous machine operation or unexpected movement. Without these procedures, maintenance workers could be put in harm's way, as they might unknowingly work on machines that are not fully secured.

While efficiency, scheduling repairs, or automation are important aspects of machine operation and management, they do not directly relate to the crucial safety measures established by lockout/tagout protocols. The main goal is to ensure the safety and well-being of workers, which is essential in any industrial or manufacturing setting.