LOTO placards: how to make a machine-specific lockout placard

A LOTO placard is the one-page version of a machine's energy control procedure, posted on or next to the machine so the person doing the work has it in front of them. OSHA doesn't use the word “placard”. The standard requires a documented, machine-specific procedure. Posting it at the point of use is how most plants make sure it's actually followed.

What goes on a good placard

1. A clear header. “Lockout/Tagout Procedure” with a hazard band, a procedure number and a revision.
2. Equipment identity. Name, asset ID, location, department, make and model, and a photo of the machine so nobody posts it on the wrong one.
3. Energy source table. One row per source: tag ID, energy type, magnitude, isolation device and its location, and the lockout device to use.
4. Isolation-point photos. A picture of each disconnect and valve saves the most time and prevents the most mistakes. It answers “which breaker?” before anyone guesses.
5. Numbered steps in the order of 1910.147(d): prepare, shut down, isolate and lock, release stored energy, verify, then return to service.
6. Special hazards and PPE specific to the machine, such as a ram that drifts or a hot sealer bar.
7. Rules and sign-off. Only authorized employees lock out, never remove another person's lock. Prepared by, approved by, issue date and next review date.

Color coding energy types

There is no OSHA color code for energy types on placards. Many plants still color-code because it's fast to read. Pick a scheme and use it everywhere: on placards, tags and training. LotoSmith uses red for electrical, blue for pneumatic, green for hydraulic, purple for gravity, gray for mechanical, orange for thermal and steam, yellow for chemical, teal for water and brown for gas.

Tag the isolation points too

The placard says “E-1: disconnect DS-14, column C3.” A matching E-1 label on the disconnect itself closes the loop. LotoSmith prints these on standard 2″ × 4″ Avery 5163/8163 label sheets, with the energy color, the machine and “LOCK OUT HERE”.

Printing and posting

• Print in color on letter paper and laminate, or slip it into a heavy sheet protector. For oily or washdown areas, use a weatherproof pouch.
• Post it where the authorized employee will see it before starting: on the machine guard, the control cabinet door, or a holder at the operator station.
• Keep a master copy of every procedure in your lockout program binder or as PDFs.

Keep them current

A placard is only as good as its last review. Re-issue it with a new revision whenever the machine is modified, rewired, re-plumbed or relocated. The annual periodic inspection required by 1910.147(c)(6) is a natural time to confirm every placard still matches its machine.

Frequently asked questions

Does OSHA require lockout placards on machines?

OSHA requires documented, machine-specific energy control procedures and that employees use them. It doesn't mandate a placard format, but posting the procedure at the machine is a widely used way to make sure it's available when the work happens.

What size should a LOTO placard be?

Letter (8.5 × 11 in) or A4 is the most common. It's big enough for a photo, an energy table and all the steps, and easy to print and laminate in-house.

Should placards include photos?

Photos of the machine and each isolation point aren't required, but they are the most useful thing you can add. They show exactly which disconnect or valve to lock.

More guides

• LOTO procedure template
• Energy control program
• Annual inspection

This guide summarizes 29 CFR 1910.147 for general information. It is not legal advice. Read the standard itself, and check any state-plan or provincial rules that apply to you.