Locked Out Do Not Operate Sign

The Locked Out Do Not Operate Sign is used to clearly instruct workers that machinery or equipment has been isolated and must not be operated. It provides an immediate visual reminder that maintenance, servicing or repairs are in progress and the equipment must remain locked out until authorised personnel have completed the work.

This sign is commonly installed on electrical switchboards, manufacturing machinery, conveyors, industrial equipment, pumps, compressors and other plant where lockout/tagout (LOTO) procedures are being carried out.

Displaying a Locked Out Do Not Operate Sign helps reinforce lockout procedures, supports workplace health and safety compliance, and reminds workers not to energise or operate equipment that has been isolated for maintenance.

Suitable for workplaces throughout New Zealand, this sign provides a clear prohibition message that helps prevent accidental equipment start-up and protects maintenance personnel.

Where Should a Locked Out Do Not Operate Sign Be Used?

Common locations include:

• Electrical switchboards
• Manufacturing machinery
• Conveyor systems
• Pumps
• Compressors
• Processing equipment
• Industrial production lines
• Maintenance shutdowns
• Plant rooms
• Mechanical equipment
• Lockout/tagout stations

By clearly identifying equipment that has been locked out, this sign helps prevent accidental operation during maintenance.

Why Use a Locked Out Do Not Operate Sign?

Benefits include:

• Helps prevent accidental machinery start-up
• Reinforces lockout/tagout procedures
• Supports workplace health and safety compliance
• Protects maintenance personnel
• Provides clear visual instructions
• Suitable for indoor and outdoor use
• Improves workplace safety awareness

FAQ

What does “Locked Out Do Not Operate” mean?

It means the equipment has been isolated from its energy source and must not be started or operated until authorised personnel have completed maintenance and removed the lockout devices.

Where should this sign be installed?

Install the sign directly on machinery, switchboards, control panels or isolation points where lockout procedures are in effect.

Does this replace lockout devices?

No. This sign is used alongside approved lockout devices and workplace lockout/tagout procedures. It provides a clear visual warning but should not replace physical isolation methods.

What mounting options are available?

Available as:

• Laminated vinyl sticker
• Corflute sign
• PVC sign
• ACM (Aluminium Composite Material) sign

Looking for additional access control signage? View our range of No Entry Signs, Restricted Area Signs and Prohibition Signs for workplaces throughout New Zealand.

Not sure if this is the right sign for your workplace or facility? Read our guide “Prohibition Signs in the Workplace: What They Mean and Why They Matter” to learn about prohibition symbols, compliance requirements and when different prohibition signs should be used.

Not sure if you’ve got all the safety signage you need?
Download our Free Safety Signage Checklist to make sure your workplace complies with New Zealand safety standards — it’s a quick and easy way to identify missing signs and stay compliant for further information check out 5 Workplace Signs Every Office Needs (And Why They Matter).

For further information go to the Worksafe website https://www.worksafe.govt.nz/topic-and-industry/hazardous-substances/managing/hazardous-substances-signs/

NZS/AS 1319:1994 advocates simplicity and clarity in safety signage. To be effective, they should be easy to read and interpret at a glance.

The Standard is about the use of legible text and appropriate, simple symbols.

By simplifying the message, it reduces the risk of misinterpretation, which increases the chances of the sign’s warning or instruction being followed.

Enhancing the signs visibility through placement and colour

Placement and visibility will play a crucial role in the efficiency of safety signs.

The standard states that signs must be positioned near the hazard they are warning about, which ensures that the safety message is relevant. Also it advocates the use of contrasting colours for the background and lettering. This attention to the colour scheme will increase visibility and readability from a reasonable distance, which ensures the message is accessible.

The mission of Hazard Signs NZ is to provide quality-made safety signs to all of New Zealand and Australia. Our great prices and convenient online ordering platform make us a preferred supplier to many NZ businesses. All our signs are designed and manufactured in Invercargill to meet the workplace health and safety needs of all businesses and industries in New Zealand.

Please note: We make some safety signs to order and therefore it may take 5 to 10 business days to receive. If you require your order urgently, please don’t hesitate to contact us to confirm an estimated delivery date prior to placing your order.

If you are not sure about what sign you need for your business, just contact us at +6432183350 or email us and we will make it ready for you.

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