On NYC construction sites, workers are injured and killed every year by the unexpected energization of machinery, equipment, or electrical systems. Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) is the procedure that ensures equipment is de-energized and remains de-energized while workers are in the danger zone. It is not optional and it is not bureaucratic red tape — it saves lives.

• Electrical: Most common on construction sites — motors, panels, temporary power
• Pneumatic: Compressed air systems — hoses under pressure can whip violently if unexpectedly released
• Hydraulic: Elevated loads, cylinders, hoist systems
• Gravity: An elevated load that can fall — even without a power source
• Thermal: Hot surfaces, steam lines, heated materials

• 1. Prepare: Identify all energy sources, locate all isolation points
• 2. Notify: Inform all affected workers that equipment is being locked out
• 3. Isolate: Shut down the equipment using the normal stopping procedure; open/disconnect all energy isolating devices
• 4. Lock & Tag: Apply your personal lock to each energy isolating device. Attach a tag with your name and date. Your lock, your key — no one else removes it
• 5. Release Stored Energy: Bleed air lines, lower suspended parts, discharge capacitors, block elevated components
• 6. Verify: Try to start the equipment; press start buttons; confirm it is truly in a zero-energy state before entering the danger zone

• When multiple trades work on the same equipment, each authorized worker applies their OWN lock to the group lockout hasp
• Equipment cannot be re-energized until EVERY lock is removed by its owner
• A foreman or GC rep cannot remove another worker's lock — period
• If a lock cannot be removed because the worker has left: follow the written emergency lock removal procedure — document fully