New Study Reports Rise in Lockout/Tagout Violations Led by Manufacturing
A recent study shows a 29 percent increase in lockout/tagout violations from 2022 to 2023, particularly affecting the manufacturing sector.
- By Robert Yaniz Jr.
- Oct 24, 2024
A recent study by Grace Technologies reveals a 29 percent increase in lockout/tagout (LOTO) violations nationwide from 2022 to 2023, particularly in manufacturing.
According to the report, OSHA recorded 2,532 citations from October 2022 and September 2023 related to LOTO violations across 1,368 inspections, resulting in $20,728,257 in penalties. The data underscores the role of LOTO procedures in preventing electrical accidents, especially in high-risk industries like manufacturing.
Food manufacturing faced the most LOTO citations, with 384 violations and $7,495,528 in penalties, followed by fabricated metal products manufacturing with 377 citations and $1,380,262 in penalties. The plastics and rubber products industry also saw 202 citations, totaling $2,094,718 in penalties. These numbers highlight a growing concern for safety in manufacturing, where LOTO violations have become increasingly frequent.
"The current escalation in LOTO violations signals a pivotal moment for industrial safety,” Grace Technologies President/CEO Drew Allen said in a statement. “This trend is a challenge and an opportunity to redefine industry standards. We are setting new benchmarks that exceed regulatory expectations by pioneering advanced safety training and deploying cutting-edge technologies. This approach addresses current gaps and paves the way for a future where workplace safety and operational excellence are inherently aligned."
The report also notes that, despite a decline in LOTO violations in 2020, 2023 saw levels closer to 2019. LOTO remains one of OSHA's top 10 most cited violations, along with other violations such as fall protection, hazard communication and ladder safety.
About the Author
Robert Yaniz Jr. is the Content Editor of Occupational Health & Safety.