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Setting a New Safety Standard with Digital Lockout/Tagout
Real-time monitoring and reporting: Digital LOTO systems offer real-time tracking of lockout activities, providing instant updates and alerts. This allows for immediate response to any issues that arise. For instance, if a lock is removed without authorization, the system instantly notifies the safety manager. They can then take quick action to investigate and address the situation, preventing potential accidents.
Reduced human error: Automating the lockout/tagout process minimizes mistakes that can occur with manual procedures. Digitized lockout tagout systems ensure every step is accurately completed. For example, a worker might forget to tag a locked-out machine, but with a digital system, this step cannot be skipped. The system will flag any incomplete steps, ensuring the procedure is fully followed and reducing the risk of accidents.
Easier compliance with regulations: Digital lockout tagout systems are designed to meet safety standards more easily, making it simpler to comply with regulations. This is crucial for passing safety audits and inspections. For example, during an OSHA inspection, the digital system can quickly generate a report showing all lockout activities and compliance status, making the audit process smoother and more efficient.
Better record-keeping: Digital LOTO procedures automatically document every lockout event, ensuring comprehensive and accurate records. This helps in tracking and reviewing safety practices over time. For instance, if a safety manager needs to review past lockout events to identify patterns or issues, they can easily access detailed records from the digital system, providing valuable insights for improving safety protocols.
How to Train Employees for Digitized LOTO
Training employees on digitized lockout tagout is important in ensuring the safe and effective implementation of this technology. Here are some methods that can be implemented in training employees for digitized LOTO:
• Online courses: Online courses provide flexibility, allowing employees to learn at their own pace and on their own schedule. These courses can include video tutorials, interactive modules, and quizzes to reinforce learning. For example, an online course might walk an employee through the steps of the digital lockout tagout process, explaining each part in detail and providing virtual demonstrations. Employees can revisit the material as needed, ensuring they fully understand the procedures. This method is especially useful for reaching employees in different locations or those with varying schedules.
This article originally appeared in the July/August 2024 issue of Occupational Health & Safety.