Workplace safety is a top priority in industries where machinery, electrical systems, and hazardous energy sources are used daily. One of the most effective safety measures to prevent accidents during maintenance or servicing is the Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) system. LOTO procedures ensure that equipment is properly shut off, de-energized, and secured before any work begins, preventing accidental startup or release of hazardous energy.
Lockout/tagout signs are critical in enforcing safety protocols by visually communicating important warnings and instructions. These signs alert workers, maintenance personnel, and visitors about potential hazards and ensure that proper lockout procedures are followed before engaging with machinery or electrical systems.
This blog will explore 30 common Lockout/Tagout signs, their meanings, purposes, and where they should be used. Understanding these signs will help enhance workplace safety, ensure compliance with OSHA regulations, and reduce the risk of accidents caused by improper equipment handling. Let’s dive in!
30 Common Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) Signs and Their Meanings
Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) signs are essential safety tools used to prevent accidental startup or energization of machinery during maintenance or servicing. They communicate critical information to workers, ensuring equipment remains de-energized and safe. Let’s discuss 30 common LOTO signs and their meanings:
1. Danger: Lock Out & Tag Out Sign
This sign indicates that a machine or equipment must be locked out and tagged before servicing or maintenance. Lockout means physically securing an energy-isolating device with a lock, while tagout involves attaching a warning tag to inform workers that the machine should not be operated. This prevents accidental startup or release of hazardous energy.
Purpose:
- Prevents workplace injuries caused by unexpected machine activation.
- Ensures compliance with OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) safety standards.
- Alerts workers to follow proper lockout/tagout procedures before performing maintenance.
Where It Is Used:
- Near machinery control panels.
- On electrical disconnect switches and circuit breakers.
- In industrial and manufacturing facilities, warehouses, and construction sites.
2. Danger: Lock Out Equipment Sign
This sign serves as a warning that specific equipment must be locked out before any maintenance or servicing is performed. It ensures that no one operates the machinery while it is being worked on.
Purpose:
- Prevents injuries caused by unintentional activation of equipment.
- Reminds workers that lockout is mandatory for safety.
- Ensures proper shutdown and energy control before servicing.
Where It Is Used:
- On machines that require regular maintenance.
- Near power control panels and shut-off valves.
- In manufacturing plants, workshops, and heavy equipment areas.
3. Lock Out Station Sign
This sign indicates the location of a Lockout Station, where lockout devices such as padlocks, tags, and hasps are stored. It helps workers quickly locate the necessary tools to safely lock out machinery.
Purpose:
- Ensures that workers can easily find lockout equipment when needed.
- Promotes organized and systematic lockout/tagout procedures.
- Reduces response time for performing lockout operations.
Where It Is Used:
- Near maintenance workshops.
- In industrial plants, near heavy machinery.
- At electrical rooms and control centers.
4. Danger: Do Not Enter – Lock Out Sign
This sign warns workers and visitors that entry into a restricted area is prohibited due to ongoing lockout procedures. It ensures that unauthorized personnel do not enter hazardous zones where maintenance is being conducted.
Purpose:
- Prevents unauthorized access to potentially dangerous work areas.
- Reduces risks associated with exposure to hazardous energy.
- Ensures only trained personnel enter areas under lockout procedures.
Where It Is Used:
- At entrances to locked-out machine areas.
- Around high-voltage electrical equipment rooms.
- Near dangerous industrial work zones.
5. Machine Must Be Locked Out Sign
This sign explicitly states that a machine must be locked out before any maintenance, servicing, or cleaning is performed. It ensures that workers follow proper safety procedures.
Purpose:
- Prevents accidental startup of equipment during servicing.
- Reinforces adherence to workplace safety protocols.
- Reduces workplace accidents caused by hazardous energy sources.
Where It Is Used:
- On machines with moving parts that pose safety risks.
- In maintenance areas and machine repair workshops.
- Near large industrial equipment and automated machinery.
6. Lock-Out Procedures Sign
This sign provides detailed instructions on how to properly perform a lockout procedure. It serves as a guide to ensure that all steps are followed correctly before maintenance begins.
Purpose:
- Standardizes lockout/tagout procedures across the workplace.
- Helps workers remember the correct steps for locking out equipment.
- Reduces the risk of human error during lockout operations.
Where It Is Used:
- Near machines requiring frequent lockout procedures.
- In training rooms for safety instruction.
- At maintenance stations in industrial plants.
7. Danger: Lock Out Electricity Sign
This sign warns that electrical energy sources must be locked out before any work is performed. It alerts workers to the dangers of electrical shock and ensures proper shutdown of power.
Purpose:
- Prevents electrocution and other electrical hazards.
- Ensures compliance with electrical safety regulations.
- Instructs workers to isolate power sources before starting maintenance.
Where It Is Used:
- Near electrical panels, circuit breakers, and power control stations.
- In maintenance rooms dealing with high-voltage equipment.
- On machinery requiring electrical servicing.
8. Lock-Out For Safety Before You Start Sign
This sign reminds workers to lock out equipment before starting any task related to maintenance, repair, or servicing. It serves as a final check to ensure safety.
Purpose:
- Prevents workers from skipping critical safety steps.
- Reinforces a safety-first approach in the workplace.
- Reduces risks associated with hazardous machinery.
Where It Is Used:
- Near machinery controls and power shutoff points.
- In maintenance rooms and workshops.
- In areas where workers frequently interact with dangerous equipment.
9. Lock Out Equipment Before Servicing Sign
This sign instructs workers to lock out all equipment before performing servicing or maintenance. It prevents accidental operation of machines during work.
Purpose:
- Reduces workplace injuries caused by unexpected machine activation.
- Ensures workers follow proper lockout procedures.
- Encourages a culture of safety and compliance.
Where It Is Used:
- Near large machinery requiring regular servicing.
- In industrial manufacturing plants and maintenance departments.
- On construction sites where heavy machinery is used.
10. Disconnect Power Before Cleaning or Servicing Sign
This sign warns workers that they must disconnect power before cleaning or servicing equipment. It ensures that the machine is de-energized to prevent accidents.
Purpose:
- Prevents electrical hazards and accidental startups.
- Protects maintenance and cleaning staff from potential injuries.
- Encourages proper de-energization procedures before servicing.
Where It Is Used:
- Near power control panels and disconnect switches.
- On machinery that requires frequent cleaning or servicing.
- In industrial kitchens, food processing plants, and textile factories.
11. Danger: Lock-Out Power Sign
This sign warns that all power sources must be locked out before performing any work on machinery or equipment. It ensures that workers do not attempt to use or restore power while maintenance is in progress.
Purpose:
- Prevents electric shock, electrocution, and other energy-related hazards.
- Ensures compliance with OSHA lockout/tagout (LOTO) safety standards.
- Prevents accidental startup of machinery.
Where It Is Used:
- Near electrical panels, circuit breakers, and power shut-off switches.
- In industrial plants, maintenance workshops, and control rooms.
- On heavy equipment requiring electrical lockout procedures.
12. Caution: Lock Out For Safety Sign
This sign reminds workers that locking out machinery is a critical safety measure before performing any maintenance or repair. It serves as a warning to ensure proper LOTO procedures are followed.
Purpose:
- Prevents workplace accidents caused by the unexpected energization of machines.
- Reinforces workplace safety protocols.
- Encourages all employees to verify that machines are locked out before work begins.
Where It Is Used:
- Near machine control panels and shutoff points.
- In industrial manufacturing facilities, warehouses, and construction sites.
- On machinery that requires frequent servicing or maintenance.
13. Equipment Being Serviced – Do Not Operate Sign
This sign prohibits the operation of machinery or equipment that is currently undergoing maintenance or servicing. It is a direct instruction to all workers to leave the machine untouched until maintenance is complete.
Purpose:
- Prevents serious accidents caused by accidental machine startup.
- Ensures maintenance workers remain safe while servicing equipment.
- Reinforces lockout/tagout compliance in workplaces.
Where It Is Used:
- On heavy industrial machines and automated equipment.
- Near electrical panels and machinery shutoff points.
- In factories, power plants, and mechanical workshops.
14. Do Not Enter Until Lockout Procedures Have Been Completed Sign
This sign restricts entry into areas where lockout procedures are still in progress. It ensures that no unauthorized personnel enter a hazardous area where work is being done on locked-out equipment.
Purpose:
- Prevents workers from entering a dangerous environment where live energy sources may still be present.
- Ensures that all lockout/tagout steps are fully completed before work resumes.
- Protects against unexpected exposure to hazardous energy.
Where It Is Used:
- At entry points to machine rooms or hazardous areas.
- In manufacturing plants, confined spaces, and high-risk zones.
- Near electrical substations and industrial control centers.
15. Lock Out and Tag Out Must Be Performed Sign
This sign mandates that both lockout and tagout procedures be performed before servicing equipment. It ensures that equipment remains fully secured and that maintenance personnel are aware of potential dangers.
Purpose:
- Reinforces the importance of applying both locks and tags for safety.
- Prevents unauthorized removal of locks or premature re-energization.
- Helps ensure compliance with workplace safety regulations.
Where It Is Used:
- Near industrial machines and power control stations.
- In maintenance areas, workshops, and construction zones.
- On machinery that operates with multiple energy sources.
16. Lock Out Electricity Before Working Sign
This sign instructs workers to lock out electrical power sources before beginning any work on machinery or equipment. It prevents electric shock, electrocution, and other power-related hazards.
Purpose:
- Ensures workers de-energize and secure power sources before servicing equipment.
- Prevents accidental electrical hazards.
- Helps compliance with electrical safety standards.
Where It Is Used:
- Near electrical panels, transformers, and high-voltage equipment.
- In data centers, power plants, and maintenance rooms.
- On industrial equipment requiring electrical lockout procedures.
17. Caution: Several Energy Sources Sign
This sign warns workers that the equipment they are servicing contains multiple energy sources (electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, mechanical, etc.) that all need to be locked out.
Purpose:
- Prevents workers from locking out only one energy source while another remains active.
- Ensures all hazardous energy sources are properly isolated before servicing.
- Reduces multi-energy-related accidents.
Where It Is Used:
- On machines that use electrical, hydraulic, or mechanical energy.
- In manufacturing plants, refineries, and industrial facilities.
- Near large machinery with complex energy systems.
18. Equipment Locked Out – Do Not Remove Locks Sign
This sign explicitly instructs that locks applied during lockout procedures should not be removed by anyone other than authorized personnel.
Purpose:
- Ensures LOTO devices remain in place until work is safely completed.
- Prevents unauthorized individuals from accidentally or intentionally removing locks.
- Reinforces proper safety procedures.
Where It Is Used:
- Near lockout stations and machinery requiring LOTO procedures.
- On electrical panels, valve shutoffs, and machine controls.
- In industrial workshops, factories, and maintenance areas.
19. Notice: Use Lockout Maintenance Sign
This sign serves as a general reminder that lockout procedures must be used during maintenance activities to ensure safety.
Purpose:
- Encourages workers to always use lockout devices during maintenance.
- Prevents workers from neglecting safety procedures.
- Reinforces the importance of workplace safety protocols.
Where It Is Used:
- In maintenance departments and industrial work areas.
- Near lockout stations and training areas.
- On machinery requiring frequent servicing.
20. Warning: Lockout Tagout Sign
This is a general warning sign reminding workers that lockout/tagout procedures must be followed to ensure safety while working on equipment.
Purpose:
- Alerts employees to potentially hazardous energy sources.
- Encourages strict adherence to lockout/tagout rules.
- Reduces workplace accidents and injuries.
Where It Is Used:
- On equipment control panels and shutoff locations.
- In factories, workshops, and construction sites.
- Near LOTO stations and maintenance rooms.
21. Lock-Out Before Any Maintenance Sign
This sign instructs workers that lockout procedures must be performed before any maintenance, repairs, or servicing activities. It serves as a strict reminder to isolate all energy sources before work begins.
Purpose:
- Prevents unexpected machine start-up that can cause serious injuries.
- Ensures compliance with OSHA’s lockout/tagout (LOTO) regulations.
- Protects workers from electrical, hydraulic, and mechanical energy hazards.
Where It Is Used:
- On industrial machines requiring regular servicing.
- Near electrical panels and power control stations.
- In factories, warehouses, and maintenance facilities.
22. Remember, Lock Out All Power Sign
This sign reminds workers that all power sources must be locked out before servicing, cleaning, or adjusting equipment. It reinforces the importance of isolating energy sources for safety.
Purpose:
- Prevents electrical shocks, burns, and energy-related injuries.
- Ensures that no energy sources are accidentally left active.
- Reinforces workplace safety protocols.
Where It Is Used:
- Near electrical switchgear, control panels, and machinery shutoff points.
- In power plants, maintenance rooms, and industrial zones.
- On heavy machinery that operates with multiple energy sources.
23. OSHA Lockout Requirements Notice Sign
This sign provides a formal notice of OSHA’s lockout/tagout requirements, ensuring that workers understand and follow proper safety procedures.
Purpose:
- Ensures compliance with OSHA safety regulations.
- Educates workers on the legal and safety obligations of LOTO.
- Helps prevent workplace accidents and legal violations.
Where It Is Used:
- In maintenance rooms, safety training areas, and break rooms.
- Near lockout stations and control rooms.
- In factories, warehouses, and high-risk industrial facilities.
24. Equipment Locked Out – Do Not Remove Locks Sign
This sign strictly warns that locks applied to equipment must not be removed until maintenance is complete and authorized personnel approve the removal.
Purpose:
- Prevents premature removal of lockout devices that could lead to accidents.
- Ensures that only authorized personnel deactivate machines.
- Maintains workplace safety and regulatory compliance.
Where It Is Used:
- On machines undergoing lockout procedures.
- Near electrical control panels and hazardous machinery.
- In manufacturing plants, maintenance workshops, and mechanical rooms.
25. Lock-Out Valves Before Work Sign
This sign instructs workers to lock out valves controlling fluids, gases, or steam before starting maintenance. It ensures that hazardous substances are not unintentionally released.
Purpose:
- Prevents burns, chemical exposure, and pressure-related accidents.
- Ensures safe handling of pipelines, tanks, and pressurized systems.
- Protects workers from unexpected energy release.
Where It Is Used:
- On steam, gas, and chemical processing equipment.
- In oil refineries, power plants, and industrial manufacturing facilities.
- Near high-pressure valve control stations.
26. Lock Out Devices Must Be Used Sign
This sign reinforces that workers must use appropriate lockout devices before servicing equipment, ensuring full compliance with LOTO procedures.
Purpose:
- Ensures locks and tags are correctly applied to machinery.
- Prevents accidental machine operation during servicing.
- Reinforces safety training and compliance with lockout regulations.
Where It Is Used:
- Near lockout stations and maintenance areas.
- On machines that require frequent servicing or adjustments.
- In factories, workshops, and construction sites.
27. Notice: Lock Out Point Sign
This sign identifies a location where lockout devices should be applied to control hazardous energy sources.
Purpose:
- Clearly marks the lockout point for workers.
- Ensures energy sources are isolated correctly before servicing.
- Prevents accidental activation of machinery.
Where It Is Used:
- On electrical control panels and machinery shutoff points.
- Near hydraulic and pneumatic energy sources.
- In manufacturing plants and industrial workshops.
28. OSHA Danger Sign: Lockout Required Beyond This Point
This sign indicates that beyond a certain point, lockout procedures are mandatory before working on any equipment. It ensures that all workers follow proper safety measures.
Purpose:
- Prevents unauthorized access to hazardous areas.
- Ensures workers comply with OSHA-mandated safety protocols.
- Reduces risk of accidental exposure to hazardous energy.
Where It Is Used:
- At entrances to machine rooms, confined spaces, and high-risk zones.
- In power plants, oil refineries, and electrical substations.
- Near machinery with multiple hazardous energy sources.
29. OSHA Caution Sign: Confined Space – Use Lock Out And Entry Procedures Before Entry
This sign warns that a confined space requires proper lockout and entry procedures before any worker can enter. It ensures that hazardous energy and dangerous gases are fully controlled.
Purpose:
- Prevents asphyxiation, toxic gas exposure, and entrapment in confined spaces.
- Ensures compliance with OSHA confined space entry regulations.
- Reduces risks associated with poor ventilation and hazardous energy.
Where It Is Used:
- Near confined spaces such as tanks, silos, and vaults.
- In wastewater treatment plants, oil refineries, and chemical facilities.
- At entry points to tunnels, pits, and enclosed industrial spaces.
30. CAUTION: This Machine Must Be Locked Out Before Servicing Sign
This sign reminds workers that servicing a machine without locking it out is dangerous and prohibited. It serves as a last-minute safety check.
Purpose:
- Prevents accidental machine startup during maintenance.
- Reduces risks of injury, electrocution, and entanglement in moving parts.
- Ensures workers follow proper lockout/tagout protocols.
Where It Is Used:
- Near control panels and power shutoff switches.
- On machines requiring routine maintenance.
- In factories, workshops, and construction sites.
Conclusion
Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) signs are crucial for workplace safety, preventing accidents by ensuring machinery and hazardous energy sources are properly secured before maintenance or servicing. These signs serve as clear visual warnings, reinforcing OSHA-compliant safety procedures and reducing the risk of unintended machine activation or energy release.
By clearly marking lockout points, restricted areas, and safety precautions, LOTO signs help protect workers from serious injuries and ensure a culture of safety in industrial, manufacturing, and construction environments. Understanding and implementing these signs effectively enhances workplace safety, minimizes downtime, and ensures compliance with regulatory standards.
