• Identify all stored energy sources before starting any LOTO procedure.
• Depressurise hydraulic and pneumatic systems fully before beginning work.
• Discharge capacitors and verify zero voltage before working on electrical systems.
• Block, pin, or crib raised loads and platforms to prevent gravity release.
• Allow hot surfaces and thermal systems to cool to safe temperatures before contact.
• Verify stored energy has been released by testing or checking gauges at zero.
• Include stored energy controls in every LOTO permit and method statement.
• Restrain compressed springs mechanically before releasing any retaining fasteners.
• Brief the maintenance team on every stored energy source present in the system.
• Re-verify energy isolation if work is interrupted or the shift changes.

• DON'T assume disconnecting the power source eliminates all energy in the system.
• DON'T work under raised loads without mechanical blocking or cribbing in place.
• DON'T open hydraulic or pneumatic connections without confirming zero pressure first.
• DON'T touch electrical components without verifying capacitors are fully discharged.
• DON'T release spring-loaded mechanisms without a mechanical restraint in position.
• DON'T rely on pressure gauges alone; physically verify depressurisation is complete.
• DON'T touch hot surfaces without confirming they have cooled to a safe temperature.
• DON'T forget to include thermal, gravity, and spring energy in the LOTO plan.
• DON'T start work on any system until all stored energy has been safely released.
• DON'T remove blocking or cribbing until the system is fully reassembled and safe.

See also: LOTO Awareness | Verification of Isolation (Proving Dead)