Citation

Parker DL, Yamin SC, Xi M, Brosseau LM, Gordon R, Most IG, Stanley R. J. Occup. Environ. Med. 2016; 58(1): 61-68.

Affiliation

Park Nicollet Institute (Dr Parker, Mr Yamin, Dr Xi, Mr Gordon), Health Research Center, St Louis Park, MN; Division of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences (Dr Brosseau), School of Public Health, University of Illinois at Chicago; School of Public Health (Dr Most), University of New England, Portland, ME; MEMIC (Mr Stanley), Loss Control Division, Portland, ME.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2016, Lippincott Williams and Wilkins)

DOI

10.1097/JOM.0000000000000594

PMID

26716850

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: Failure to implement lockout/tagout (LOTO) procedures adversely affects the rate of work-related fatalities and serious traumatic injury and is one of the most frequently cited Occupational Safety and Health Administration standards. This study assesses the impact of a nationwide intervention to improve LOTO in small metal fabrication businesses.

METHODS: Insurance safety consultants conducted a standardized and validated evaluation of LOTO programs and procedures. Businesses received a baseline evaluation, two intervention visits, and a 12-month follow-up evaluation.

RESULTS: The intervention was completed by 160 businesses. The mean LOTO procedure score improved from 8% to 33% (P < 0.0001), the mean program score went from 55% to 76% (P < 0.0001), and the presence of lockable disconnects went from 88% to 92% (P < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS: This nationwide intervention showed substantial improvements in LOTO. It provides a framework for assessing and improving LOTO.

Language: en