

The energy sources include electricity, including mains, solar and generator, fuels, heat, steam, fluids under pressure, such as water, air or hydraulic oil), stored energy, gravity, radiation. Isolation procedures should identify all energy sources likely to re-activate the plant and place people at risk. one switch before another) or by shutting down several energy sources.ģ.1.2 Identify all energy sources and other associated hazards However, complex plant or equipment may have to be shut down in a sequence (e.g. The operation of a single switch or valve can usually shut down plant or equipment that has a single energy source. However, every isolation procedure should include the steps outlined below. Isolation procedures in each task may vary because of differences in plant, equipment, power sources, hazards, and processes. LOTO isolation should be implemented and authorised as part of the safe system of work for protection against hazards. Increases productivity and reduced equipment downtime and damageĬost savings through lower insurance premiums. Minimised risk of injuries and fatalities This results in a safer workplace whilst performing critical maintenance, cleaning, and repairs.

This can be prevented with clearly documented LOTO procedures and the performance of isolation and maintenance to protect people from exposure to any form of hazardous energy. In a work environment, a person may be injured or killed due to the unintentional release of hazardous energy sources.

The guideline supports and should be read in conjunction with UQ’s Safe Use of Plant and Equipment Procedure. This guideline applies to work on plant or equipment on UQ campuses and sites, including work on or near equipment or mobile plant containing different forms of energy. The guideline provides UQ Client Facility Managers (CFM), Client Facility Coordinators (CFC) and supervisors with risk-based, practical tools and information to minimise the risk of incidents or injury using LOTO isolation. This guideline aims to reduce the risk of injury to people at The University of Queensland (UQ) working on plant or equipment by preventing the item and its components from being set in motion and preventing the accidental release of stored energy.
