Lockout tagout (LOTO) is a safety procedure used in industrial settings to ensure that dangerous machines are properly shut off and unable to start up again while maintenance or repair work is being done. The procedure involves isolating the equipment from its energy source and attaching a lock or tag to it to indicate that it should not be operated. This prevents accidental or unexpected start-up of the machine, which could cause serious injury or even death to the workers performing maintenance. LOTO is an essential safety measure that helps to protect workers in high-risk industries.