Why is it important to 'lock and tag' an electrical panel?

Locking and tagging an electrical panel is a critical safety procedure used in various working environments, especially in the HVAC and electrical fields. The primary reason for this practice is to prevent unauthorized access during work. When maintenance or repair work is being performed on electrical systems, it is vital to ensure that only designated, qualified personnel have access to the equipment. By locking and tagging the panel, workers communicate that the panel is being serviced and that it should not be operated or accessed by anyone else until the work is completed and it is safe to do so.

This procedure helps to mitigate the risks of accidents, injuries, or unintended electrical shocks that could occur if an untrained individual interacts with the equipment while it is being serviced. It is a fundamental aspect of lockout/tagout (LOTO) procedures, which are designed to protect workers and ensure a safe working environment.