How many fatalities does proper Lockout/Tagout compliance prevent each year?

Proper Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) compliance is a crucial safety measure in the workplace that significantly reduces the risk of injuries and fatalities related to the unintended release of hazardous energy during maintenance or servicing of machinery and equipment. According to various safety organizations, including the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), proper adherence to LOTO practices is estimated to prevent around 120 fatalities each year. This figure underscores the critical importance of implementing LOTO procedures in workplaces where machines or equipment can unexpectedly become energized, posing severe hazards to workers.

The implementation of LOTO protocols ensures workers are protected from injury by requiring that equipment be shut down and unable to be started up again until maintenance is completed. This system of control helps to safeguard employees and promote a safer working environment, reinforcing the idea that proper training and compliance can save lives effectively.