• Follow the site LOTO procedure for every isolation — no shortcuts or informal methods.
• Apply your own personal padlock to the isolation point before starting any work.
• Attach a clear tag to your lock stating your name, date, and reason for isolation.
• Prove dead after isolation — test the equipment to confirm energy is fully disconnected.
• Release all stored energy including pressure, springs, and raised loads before work begins.
• Use a multi-lock hasp when more than one person is working on the same system.
• Keep the key to your lock on your person at all times during the isolation.
• Inform your supervisor before applying or removing any LOTO device on site.
• Check that all isolation points have been identified before beginning work on any system.
• Remove your own lock only when your work is complete and the area is safe.

• DON'T work on any equipment without confirming it has been properly isolated and locked out.
• DON'T rely on tags alone — physical locks must be used to prevent re-energisation.
• DON'T forget to tag your lock — unlabelled locks cause confusion and delays.
• DON'T assume equipment is dead — always prove dead with a tested proving unit.
• DON'T ignore stored energy — pressurised systems and raised loads remain dangerous after isolation.
• DON'T share padlocks — each person must have their own individual lock and key.
• DON'T leave your key unattended or give it to anyone else during the isolation.
• DON'T isolate or de-isolate without following the formal permit and LOTO procedure.
• DON'T remove another person's lock — only the person who applied it may remove it.
• DON'T re-energise equipment until all locks are removed and the area is confirmed clear.

See also: Electrical Isolation | Verification of Isolation (Proving Dead)