How To Get Lockout Tagout Training Electricians Need In 2025

If you work as an electrician, you'll spend countless hours servicing electrical equipment, maintaining machinery, and working on systems that could unexpectedly energize. Maybe you're troubleshooting a control panel in a manufacturing plant, servicing electrical components in a warehouse, or performing maintenance on industrial equipment. Lockout tagout training has become a standard requirement on electrician job profiles and resumes.

Here's what our internal job market data reveals. 22% of helper electrician jobs now require lockout tagout training. 20% of apprentice and journeyman electrician positions ask for LOTO certification. 14% of foreman roles specify this credential. These numbers tell a clear story - lockout tagout certification isn't just paperwork anymore; it's a career necessity.

This training does more than check boxes. Getting lockout tagout certified opens doors to better-paying electrical jobs, keeps you safer when working with hazardous energy sources, and demonstrates your commitment to workplace safety. Let's break down exactly how to get it done.

What is Lockout Tagout Training for Electricians?

Lockout tagout (LOTO) training teaches electricians how to safely control hazardous energy during electrical maintenance and servicing activities. OSHA Standard 29 CFR 1910.147 requires this training for anyone who works on or around equipment where unexpected energization could cause injury.

The training covers energy control procedures, hazardous energy identification, electrical safety protocols, and proper lockout tagout device usage. Unlike general electrical safety training, LOTO certification focuses on energy isolation procedures and the step-by-step process of rendering equipment safe for maintenance work.

Key components include

• Recognition of electrical hazards and energy sources
• Proper application of lockout tagout devices
• Energy isolation and verification procedures
• Group lockout procedures for team projects
• Documentation and communication requirements

OSHA Training Requirements for Electricians

OSHA mandates three types of lockout tagout training based on your role.

Authorized Employee Training applies to electricians who actually perform lockout tagout procedures. This includes maintenance workers, electrical technicians, and outside contractors. The training covers when and how to apply energy control procedures, group lockout coordination, and shift change protocols.

Affected Employee Training targets workers who operate equipment that others service under LOTO procedures or those working in areas where lockout tagout is performed. This includes machine operators and administrative staff working near electrical equipment.

Other Employee Training provides general awareness for all workplace personnel about lockout tagout procedures and the importance of not interfering with energy control devices.

Electrical-Specific LOTO Procedures

Energy isolation devices for electrical work include circuit breakers, disconnect switches, fuses, control switches, manual valves, blocks, and other devices. Proper electrical safety procedures require verifying a zero energy state using appropriate test equipment before beginning maintenance work.

Step-by-Step LOTO Certification Process

Choose Your Training Provider

Select an OSHA-compliant online training program that meets 29 CFR 1910.147 requirements. Most electrical safety training courses cost between $25-$150 and can be completed in 1-2 hours.

Complete the Coursework

Online lockout tagout training typically includes these modules.

• Hazardous energy identification modules
• Lockout tagout device selection and application
• Energy control procedure development
• Electrical safety protocols
• Group lockout coordination

Pass the Certification Exam

Training providers set their own passing requirements for the final exam. The test covers energy control procedures, OSHA compliance requirements, and electrical safety practices.

Workplace Competency Evaluation

Your employer is required by OSHA to verify you can safely perform lockout tagout procedures on actual equipment. This hands-on assessment confirms you understand how to apply classroom knowledge in real work situations.

Documentation and Record Keeping

Maintain your lockout tagout certification records and training documentation. OSHA requires employers to certify that effective training has been provided to all employees.

Career Benefits and Job Market Impact

Electricians with lockout tagout certification access higher-paying positions in manufacturing, industrial maintenance, and facility management. Many electrical contractor jobs require LOTO training for different types of work.

• Industrial electrical maintenance
• Manufacturing facility work
• Power plant operations
• Commercial building maintenance
• Construction project leadership

Training Costs and Investment

Online Training Options - $25-$150 per person

‍In-Person Training - $200-$400 (includes hands-on practice)

‍Group Training - Often discounted for multiple employees

Maintaining Your LOTO Certification

The lockout tagout certification itself doesn't expire, but OSHA requires retraining when there are changes in job assignments, equipment, or procedures or when deficiencies are identified through workplace inspections. Many employers establish regular review schedules to maintain compliance.

Lockout tagout certification has become standard for advancing in electrical careers. The certification takes just a few hours to complete and costs under $150. Get started today - Complete the online training, pass the certification exam, and notify your employer about your new credential.

This training provides knowledge that could prevent serious electrical accidents and opens doors to better-paying positions as an electrician. Your next project is out there, and contractors want certified electricians who prioritize safety and professional development.