Did you know that since 2014, OSHA has issued employers more than 10,000 LOTO citations?
The Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) system is crucial to maintaining workplace safety. However, despite fencing and educating about the system, it sometimes tends to backfire. Hence, it is necessary to go that extra mile and make that extra effort to ensure a foolproof LOTO system.
So how do we foolproof the system to minimize errors and incidents?
• Identify the risks
• Inform the concerned people
• Complete isolation of the machinery
• Affix the LOTO tag
• Energy check and verification
• Checking and restoration of the equipment by experts
So, are these steps enough? Well, if done with extreme carefulness, these steps promise a safe LOTO system, but they still leave room for errors. Now the question arises of how to add that extra layer of foolproof safety.
The answer is to digitize the LOTO system.
A digital LOTO system promises a foolproof and safe procedure from start to end. Let us discuss this in detail.
What is a Digital LOTO System?
A digital LOTO system integrates with the current safety software or is installed as a different module in the work system.
Once installed, it replaces manual paperwork and the need for physical authorization. The system digitizes work documents and guides while providing 360-degree security. The LOTO digital system reduces the need to keep mechanical locks and physical security measures. It provides an electronic lockout and virtual tag. Moreover, authorities can analyze the entire process as it is digitally traceable.
The digital system comes with an easy-to-use mobile application. It makes accessing and updating information in real-time quick and effortless.
This digital transformation of the LOTO process leads to effective planning, shorter process time, and increased security and traceability.
Benefits of the Digital LOTO System
The digitization of the LOTO system is the future of industrial security. Workplaces implementing the digital LOTO system have found it extremely capable of being a strategic and workable process. Here are some of the benefits of digitizing the LOTO process:
Greater Time and Communication Efficiency
A digital LOTO reduces downtime considerably. As the administrative and authorization processes are quickly carried out, the process starts speedily and ends seamlessly. The communication channel is also momentous. The digital channel ensures two-way communication to alert authorities and employees. Real-time alerts help everyone stay in the loop and know the progress of the maintenance work.
Enhanced Security and No Errors
When the system is secured, it leaves room for zero errors. Employees feel confident that the information is secure and have momentous help. The digital system ensures zero fatalities (if the proper procedure is followed) as the entire work process is scrutinized from start to end. The worker can instantly alert personnel if they notice any manipulation or misbehavior.
Automated Data Collection
Data plays a prominent role in the LOTO system. It enhances maintenance services and prevents repeated mistakes. Every little step is recorded, which makes the data rich and valuable. It helps resolve issues faster and delivers immediate insights into the problematic corners. The automated data collection identifies gaps and heightens sensitive information for increased awareness.
Increased Efficiency in Work Processes
The LOTO digital system provides a microscopic view of all the processes. It ensures zero miscommunication by providing centralized and systematic communication for all LOTO activities. It is the primary way to prepare, verify, and approve LOTO before an outage. A unique barcode is generated to perform isolation verification, thus enhancing safety. When the little details are taken care of, and the workers know that help is available at the click of a button, efficiency indeed tends to increase.
A Compliant and Safe Workplace
LOTO digitization supports compliance by allowing easy and regular auditing of the LOTO processes. Thus, all the LOTO complaints are in place, and the organization can focus on productivity. It adds a layer of safety by not allowing restoration of LOTO unless all personnel have been notified or signed off the LOTO. Digitalization also provides a standard and consistent LOTO process throughout the entire organization.
Conclusion
The benefits affirm enough to provide the organization with enhanced efficiency and productivity. The digital, easy-to-use, and flexible LOTO management solution promises a safer workplace. The employees and the equipment are saved from incidents and accidents.
So, what are you waiting for? Digitize your LOTO system today!
To learn more, visit Core EHS Lockout/Tagout Management Software.
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