LOTO (Lockout/Tagout) Colour Coding is used to standardize the identification of locks and tags based on their purpose and level of control. Though specific colour codes may vary by company and region, the general industry standard follows these common practices:
🟥Red – Personal Lockout (Primary Lock)
- Used by individuals performing maintenance or servicing.
- Indicates that a worker has locked out equipment for personal safety.
- Only the person who placed the lock can remove it.
🟨Yellow – Group Lockout:
- Used in group lockout procedures where multiple workers are involved.
- A group leader or supervisor may control this lock.
🟦Blue – Authorized Personnel Lock:
- Often assigned to maintenance or authorized personnel for specific tasks.
- Used when equipment needs servicing but does not necessarily require full isolation.
🟩Green – Equipment Lock (Departmental Lock):
- Used for isolating equipment for extended periods (e.g., shutdowns, repairs).
- Typically controlled by a specific department.
🟨Orange – Testing or Commissioning Lock:
- Applied when equipment is under testing or troubleshooting.
- Indicates that temporary energization may occur.
🟦Purple – Contractor Lock:
- Used by external contractors working on-site.
- Helps differentiate between company employees and third-party workers.
⬛️Black/White – Out of Service / Do Not Operate Lock:
- Used for equipment that is decommissioned or unsafe to use.
- Not for personal protection but to indicate unusable machinery.
