Lockout/Tagout, or Control of Hazardous Energy (29 CFR 1910.147), is an OSHA regulation implemented to protect maintenance and service workers in the performance of their duties. It specifically addresses hazards that could injure employees from the unexpected energization or start-up of machines or equipment, or when stored energy could be released while servicing or maintaining equipment. Employees are protected by following the procedures to shut down the machine and ensure that it cannot activate while they are working on it.