What is lockout/tagout (LOTO) used for?

Lockout/tagout (LOTO) is a critical safety procedure used to ensure that machinery and equipment are properly shut off and not able to be started up again until maintenance or servicing is completed. The primary use of LOTO is to prevent the accidental or unauthorized energization of machinery while it is being repaired or maintained, which significantly reduces the risk of injury to workers. By affixing locks and tags to the energy-isolating devices of equipment, workers can be assured that they won't be exposed to harmful energies or unexpected machine movements while they conduct their tasks.

The other options focus on training, performance enhancement, or keeping machinery powered, which are not the main objectives of LOTO. This highlights that while training is important in promoting safety culture and operational understanding, the essence of lockout/tagout is firmly rooted in maintaining a safe working environment by controlling access to hazardous energy.