Emergency lockout is a safety procedure used to prevent accidental machine start-up during maintenance or repair work. It involves isolating the energy source of equipment and securing it with a lock or tag to ensure that it cannot be operated until the work is completed. This practice is crucial in workplaces to protect employees from potential injuries. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) mandates that companies implement lockout/tagout (LOTO) procedures to enhance workplace safety. Proper training and adherence to these protocols help minimize risks associated with hazardous energy, ensuring that workers can perform their tasks without the threat of unexpected machine activation.