July
Assured Grounding
LO/TO Safety
Quick Links/Resources
Assured Grounding
Lockout/Tagout
This month, we’re doubling down on the core systems that protect workers from electrical hazards and unexpected equipment startups—Assured Grounding and Lockout/Tagout (LOTO). Our July refresher training highlights the critical importance of inspecting and tagging electrical equipment, identifying proper grounding methods, and understanding the six essential steps of LOTO. From using GFCI protection to verifying zero-energy states before maintenance, this series is designed to prevent life-altering incidents and reinforce a culture of safety and responsibility. Whether you're operating a grinder or preparing to service complex machinery, this month is all about knowing when to stop, lock, and tag before you touch.
WEEK 1
In Week 1, the focus is on Assured Equipment Grounding Conductor Programs, which are designed to protect workers from electrical hazards posed by damaged or improperly grounded corded tools and equipment. All temporary power cords, extension cords, and plug-connected equipment must be visually inspected daily and tested quarterly using both continuity and GFCI tests. Improper grounding—such as missing prongs or damaged insulation—can result in serious injuries, including shocks, burns, and cardiac arrest. Grounding integrity is verified through a color-coded tagging system after each inspection. The message is clear: don’t use damaged tools, don’t bypass safety pins, and never assume it’s safe—test it and tag it.
Multiple Choice Questions: What is the purpose of a continuity test in the assured grounding program? A) To test how long the tool runs B) To ensure electricity flows directly to the plug C) To verify the grounding path is electrically continuous D) To make sure the outlet has power What color coding system is used after equipment is inspected? A) Serial numbers B) Engraved tags C) Color-coded tape D) Paint marks Which of the following cords are prohibited on construction sites? A) Orange round cords B) Cords with built-in GFCIs C) Flat-wire cords D) Double-insulated cords What could happen if the grounding pin on a tool’s plug is missing? A) The tool may not turn on B) The breaker will automatically shut it off C) The user may become the grounding path and get shocked D) Nothing—it's just for alignment When must GFCI and continuity tests be conducted? A) Only when new tools are bought B) After each use C) Before first use, after repairs, and every 3 months D) Once per year Limited Response How do flat-wire cords differ from the cords we’re allowed to use on site? Discussion Question: Why do you think it’s so common for workers to ignore damaged cords or missing ground pins—and how can we create a culture that takes those small warnings seriously?
WEEK 2
Lockout/Tagout Safety
Week 2 focuses on Lockout/Tagout (LOTO)—a critical safety process that prevents the accidental startup or release of stored energy during equipment service or maintenance. The key idea is: if there’s energy, there’s danger. Before any work begins, authorized employees must identify energy sources (electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, etc.), shut down the equipment, isolate it, and apply standardized locks and tags. This procedure also includes a crucial step called the “tryout,” where the worker verifies the equipment cannot restart. Only trained and certified personnel may apply locks, and locks must clearly identify the user. LOTO isn’t just about protecting the worker doing the task—it safeguards everyone nearby. The bottom line: If in doubt…LOCK IT OUT!
Multiple Choice Questions: Which of the following is NOT one of the three main purposes of lockout/tagout? A) Protect the person working on the equipment B) Prevent tool theft C) Protect other workers nearby D) Serve as a communication tool What should authorized employees do after locking out a machine? A) Inform HR of the lockout B) Test the equipment to verify a zero-energy state C) Place the key in a shared lockbox D) Leave the tag on but remove the lock Who is allowed to apply a lockout device? A) Any employee with access to tools B) Only the supervisor C) Only trained and authorized employees D) Subcontractors What is a tagout device used for? A) To record maintenance history B) As a backup power source C) To warn others that a lockout is in place D) To automatically shut off power Why is the “tryout” step so important in the lockout/tagout process? A) It ensures the tag is visible B) It helps speed up the job C) It confirms the equipment is truly isolated and safe to work on D) It allows you to remove the lock early Limited Response Which provides more level of protection: Tagout device or a Physical Lockout device? Discussion Question: What would you do if you saw someone starting work on a machine that wasn’t locked out—and why is peer accountability critical for LOTO compliance?
WEEK 3
Lockout/Tagout Steps
In Week 3, we take a deeper dive into the six essential steps of the Lockout/Tagout process.
This structured sequence ensures that machinery is not only turned off but completely de-energized and safe before any maintenance or servicing begins. Each step plays a vital role in preventing accidental injuries—especially the often-overlooked “Tryout,” which verifies that equipment can’t be restarted. Training is critical: authorized employees must understand how to isolate and secure all energy sources, while affected employees should know enough to stay clear and respect the locks and tags. Safety isn’t just in the steps—it’s in the discipline to follow each one every time.
Before you fix, before you test,
Let’s walk through steps that work the best:
1—prepare, don’t rush ahead,
Know the power—what’s live, what’s dead.
2—shut down nice and slow,
Power down from head to toe.
3—isolate each source,
Electric, steam, or fluid force.
4—lock out, tag it too,
Make it clear—it’s only you!
5—release what’s trapped inside,
That stored-up energy can’t hide.
6—now try to start,
If it runs, stay clear - be smart!
Your name, your key, your final check,
Keeps your team safe - what the heck!
So lock it low and tag it high—
And no one needs to say goodbye.
Multiple Choice Questions: What is the first step in the lockout/tagout procedure? A) Lockout B) Shutdown C) Preparation D) Tagout During the isolation step, what action is typically performed? A) Informing coworkers of lunch break B) Tagging the machine C) Turning off the main power source or closing valves D) Calling a supervisor Why is it important to release stored or residual energy? A) It reduces paperwork B) Leftover energy can cause unexpected movement or injury C) It makes locks easier to apply D) It is only required on electrical systems What must be included on every lockout/tagout tag? A) The model number of the lock B) The name of the supervisor C) The authorized employee's name, employer, and the date D) A drawing of the machine Who must be trained on lockout/tagout procedures? A) Only HR personnel B) Only the plant manager C) Both authorized and affected employees D) Only maintenance workers Limited Response What step must you take after locking out equipment to ensure no energy remains? Discussion Question: Why do you think "stored energy" is often overlooked - and what are examples of how it could still cause injury even after shutdown?
WEEK 4
Abandoned Lock Procedures
In Week 4, the focus shifts to what happens after a job ends—specifically when an authorized employee forgets to remove their lock. An abandoned lock is more than an inconvenience; it’s a safety risk and a breakdown in the lockout/tagout chain of communication. The procedure requires the immediate supervisor to confirm the employee has left the site, make all reasonable attempts to contact them, and only then—after inspection and verification—can the equipment be restored. Documentation is also essential; supervisors must complete the Abandoned Lock Procedure Form and inform the employee first thing upon their return. The message is simple: a lock left behind can leave people at risk—follow the process, file the paperwork, and close the loop.
Multiple Choice Questions: Who is responsible for removing a lock if the authorized employee forgets? A) The plant manager B) Any coworker nearby C) The immediate supervisor D) The maintenance department Before removing an abandoned lock, the supervisor must: A) Wait 24 hours B) Call the employee and verify they have left the site C) Issue a warning D) Replace the lock with a tag What must be completed once a lock has been removed by a supervisor? A) A lockout tag replacement B) An energy audit C) The Abandoned Lock Procedure Form D) A maintenance ticket When should the authorized employee be informed that their lock was removed? A) At the next team meeting B) After their next break C) Immediately upon their return and before resuming work D) Via email Why is removing someone else's lock without following procedure dangerous? A) It could damage the lock B) It’s only a paperwork violation C) The equipment may still be unsafe or in use D) It’s just inconvenient for the next shift Limited Response Who is responsible for authorizing the removal of an abandoned lock? Discussion Question: What form must be completed when a supervisor removes an abandoned lock?
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