Lock Out Tag Out (LOTO) Training

LOTO Training Course Overview

• Professional Online Training Course
• Fully accredited through the CPD Certification Service
• Course can be taken on desktop, laptop or tablet
• Instant 24/7 access
• Can be completed at your own pace
• Download the certificate upon completion of online assessment 
• Bulk discounts available
• Chartered health and safety e-learning supplier

Lock Out Tag Out Course Online

Lock out tag out involves physically locking specific equipment’s energy-isolating device in a safe position and attaching a visible warning tag. This process helps prevent the unexpected release of hazardous energy, which can cause serious injury or even death.

This training course comprehensively introduces the principles and importance of safe equipment isolation. It provides an overview of what LOTO is, why it's essential in preventing injury, and the types of hazardous energy workers may be exposed to during maintenance or servicing tasks.

Delegates will explore how to identify and manage health and safety risks related to stored or residual energy, including assessing equipment, locating isolation points, and recognising the dangers of uncontrolled energy. From there, the course provides a clear step-by-step guide to the lockout process itself - from equipment shutdown and isolation, to correctly applying locks and tags, and ensuring proper verification of safe systems before beginning work.

The training also covers the various lockout devices available, such as for valves, switches, and circuit breakers, alongside best practices for tagging systems. Relevant PPE is discussed, and the training material includes practical advice on when and how to use it.

Finally, this safety training course addresses the responsibilities of both employers and employees in creating a safe working system under regulations such as PUWER and UK legislation. This includes the importance of documentation, clear signage, complete routine maintenance and effective communication during LOTO operations, especially when working as part of a team.

Lockout Tagout Course Objectives

By the end of this course, learners should be able to:

• Understand the principles and purpose of Lock Out Tag Out
• Recognise the dangers of uncontrolled energy
• Understand the potential hazards and risks involved in working with potentially dangerous machinery
• Follow a compliant and safe LOTO procedure
• Use appropriate isolation equipment and signage
• Promote a safety-first approach in maintenance and repair environments

Who Should Take This Course?

This safety training is ideal for any competent person involved in:

• Machinery maintenance activities and servicing
• Electrical or mechanical repairs
• Work equipment risk assessment and safety measures
• Plant shutdowns or equipment isolation
• Working around hazardous energy sources

It’s especially relevant for engineers, technicians, contractors, and site managers operating in sectors such as manufacturing, construction, energy, warehousing, and logistics.

LOTO Training FAQs

What is Lock Out Tag Out?

LOTO is a safety procedure used to ensure that machines and equipment are properly shut off and cannot be restarted while maintenance or servicing is being carried out. This protective system prevents unintentional exposure to hazardous energy from equipment and machinery. A lockout device, such as a padlock, secures the energy isolating device while a tagout device (i.e. a tag) warns employees not to use the equipment while its serviced.

What is the Lock Out Tag Out procedure?

The LOTO procedure involves a series of essential steps:

1. Prepare for shutdown - Identify the equipment and energy sources involved.
2. Notify affected employees - Let relevant staff know that maintenance is taking place.
3. Shut down the equipment - Power down machinery using standard controls.
4. Isolate the energy source - Use switches, valves or breakers to fully isolate all power.
5. Apply lock and tag - Secure the energy-isolating device with a lock and warning tag.
6. Release stored energy - Safely discharge any residual or stored energy.
7. Verify isolation - Double-check that the equipment cannot be re-energised.
8. Perform servicing - Carry out maintenance or repair work safely.
9. Remove lock and tag - Only the person who applied them should remove them once the work is complete.
10. Restore energy - Re-energise the equipment and resume normal operations.

Following each step correctly is vital to protect workers and remain compliant with health and safety regulations.

What training complements LOTO?

Combining LOTO training with complementary health and safety courses is a smart move, especially for teams involved in maintenance, engineering, or operational roles where safe working procedures are critical. If you’re interested in a comprehensive training package, we recommend including:

1. Risk Assessment Training: Provides step-by-step guidance on how to conduct thorough risk assessments, evaluate hazards, and implement suitable control measures in line with HSE expectations.
2. PPE Training: Explains how to select, use, and maintain PPE correctly - critical when working with mechanical, electrical, or chemical hazards during lockout procedures.
3. Electrical Safety Awareness: Since many LOTO procedures involve isolating electrical sources, this course would reinforce safe practices and help workers identify electrical hazards in the workplace.
4. COSHH Awareness Training: If your team is also working with hazardous substances, COSHH training complements LOTO by ensuring safe handling and storage, particularly during maintenance or equipment shutdowns.