Every day, workers across various manufacturing and other industries face potential hazards while performing maintenance or repairs on machinery. One critical safety measure designed to protect employees is the lockout/tagout (LOTO) procedure.
Following this process helps ensure that dangerous equipment is properly shut off and cannot be restarted until maintenance or repair work is complete. Unfortunately, many employees working with dangerous machinery are seriously harmed by unexpected equipment startups.
What is lockout/tagout?
It is a safety practice used to ensure hazardous machinery is safely shut off and cannot be restarted until maintenance or repair work is complete. The procedure involves isolating energy sources and applying locks and tags to prevent accidental startup.
Injury risks to workers
Failure to follow proper LOTO procedures can lead to severe injuries or even death. Common injuries include electrocution, burns, crushing, cutting, lacerating, amputating and fracturing body parts.
For example, a steam valve might automatically turn on while workers are repairing a connection, causing burns. Similarly, a jammed conveyor system could suddenly release, crushing the worker trying to clear the jam.
Proper training and adherence to LOTO procedures are essential to safeguard workers from these and other LOTO hazards.
Workers’ compensation coverage and benefits
If injured in a LOTO incident, you are most likely entitled to workers’ compensation benefits under Illinois law. A successful claim can cover your medical expenses and rehabilitation costs and even replace a portion of the income lost to your injury.
Having experienced legal guidance can help to strengthen your claim and prevent complications. It can also help if your claim has been denied.
