What is the purpose of a tagout in LOTO?

• A. To indicate that energy isolation has been performed and warn not to operate the equipment
• B. To identify the person performing the lockout
• C. To record maintenance activities
• D. To unlock equipment after maintenance

Answer: (A)

Tagout is used to provide a visible warning that energy has been isolated and to prevent accidental re-energization of equipment. When applied, the tag signals that maintenance or servicing is in progress and that the equipment should not be operated until the tag is removed by the authorized person who applied it. It may include the name of the person, the date, and the reason for isolation, but its primary role is to warn and prohibit operation, not to record activities or identify the worker as the sole purpose. In LOTO, a lock provides the physical barrier, and the tag reinforces the status, though it relies on proper procedures to prevent removal.