Types of Energy used in our world!!

In industrial and maintenance work, several types of hazardous energy may be present:

1. Electrical Energy

From energized circuits, cables, or equipment.

Hazards: Shock, burns, or electrocution.

2. Mechanical Energy

Stored in moving parts or springs (e.g., rotating machinery, compressed springs).

Hazards: Crushing, impact, or entanglement injuries.

3. Hydraulic Energy

Pressurized fluids in hydraulic systems (e.g., lifts, machinery).

Hazards: Injection injuries, sudden movement of components.

4. Pneumatic Energy

Pressurized air in pneumatic systems (e.g., air compressors).

Hazards: High-speed release or movement.

5. Thermal Energy

Heat or cold from equipment, steam, or chemicals.

Hazards: Burns or frostbite.

6. Chemical Energy

From reactive chemicals or processes (e.g., battery acid, flammable gases).

Hazards: Explosions, fire, or toxic exposures.

7. Gravity Energy

Potential energy in elevated components (e.g., cranes, suspended loads).

Hazards: Falling objects or equipment.

8. Stored Energy

Energy held in springs, capacitors, or pressurized systems after shutdown.

Hazards: Unintended release during maintenance.

Lockout/Tagout (LOTO)

LOTO is a safety procedure designed to isolate energy sources to prevent accidental release during maintenance or servicing.

Steps in LOTO

1. Preparation

Identify all energy sources and understand the hazards.

2. Shutdown

Turn off the equipment following standard procedures.

3. Isolation

Disconnect all energy sources (e.g., circuit breakers, valves).

4. Lockout

Apply a lock (physical device) to prevent reactivation.

5. Tagout

Attach a tag indicating the lockout status, reason, and responsible person.

6. Energy Dissipation

Release stored energy (e.g., bleeding hydraulic lines, discharging capacitors).

7. Verification

Test or attempt to restart the equipment to ensure energy is isolated.

8. Perform Maintenance

Conduct the task safely under LOTO conditions.

9. Release from Lockout

Reverse the process once maintenance is complete, ensuring the area is clear before re-energizing.

Why LOTO is Critical

Prevents accidents caused by unexpected energy release.

Protects workers from injuries like electrocution, burns, crushing, or amputation.

Complies with safety standards like OSHA 1910.147 (Control of Hazardous Energy).