• Health and Safety Forum

  Lock Out Tag Out Consultation and webinar

  Posted by Hayley Head on 24 October 2025 at 1:28 pm

  We are pleased to present the second round of consultation on the draft Lock Out Tag Out (LOTO) Guide, developed by the EEA’s Safety Standards and Procedures Group (SSPG).

  Background and Purpose

  The LOTO Guide has been prepared to provide clear, practical guidance on the lockout and tagging of switches and equipment that serve as isolation points within the electricity ‘works’ environment. Its purpose is to support a consistent, industry-wide approach to LOTO, raising the standard of health and safety practices across New Zealand’s electricity supply sector. The guide is intended to complement, not replace, existing legislative and regulatory requirements, and is based on good practice as recognised by industry representatives.

  Industry Feedback and Support

  During the first round of consultation, some stakeholders questioned the need for a dedicated LOTO guide, given the existence of various standards and internal procedures.

  In response, the SSPG sought the views of the EEA Board and Electricity Networks Aotearoa (ENA), which represents 29 electricity distribution businesses (EDBs). Both the EEA Executive and ENA provided unequivocal support for the development of this guide, recognising the need for clear, industry-specific guidance to lift LOTO and health and safety standards. Their feedback was 100% in favour of proceeding, and the SSPG has been given a strong mandate to continue this work with their full backing.

  Other suggestions received during consultation were reviewed and these have all been considered, resulting in further enhancements to the guide. Feedback relating to Tags, Tag colours and Tag design was considered, however the status quo was maintained as the guide aligns with the requirements of existing ASNZS standards

  Scope of the Guide

  This guide covers the lockout and tagging of switches and equipment that serve as isolation points within the electricity ‘works’ environment. It does not address requirements for switches or locks associated with equipment that remains in its normal network status. The guide is designed to be practical and adaptable, recognising the varied approaches currently in use across the industry, and aims to provide a pathway for all organisations to achieve best practice over time.

  Invitation to Provide Feedback

  We now invite all stakeholders to review the updated draft and provide additional feedback. Your input is essential to ensure the guide is robust, practical, and reflects the needs of the entire industry.

  The consultation draft and feedback form is available via this link: LOTO Guide (Draft) Consultation

  Please send your comments to admin@eea.co.nz by 10th November 2025

  Registration for the Webinar

  A Webinar will be conducted on Monday 3rd November at 10am to overview the guide: Register here for the LOTO webinar

  Thank you for your ongoing engagement and commitment to improving safety in our industry.
  SSPG Committee

  Hayley Head replied 5 days, 13 hours ago 1 Member · 0 Replies
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