Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) in the UK: Isolation Done Right

Last updated: 8 October 2025
Author: Jade Anderson, Senior Reporter — UK-Safety.News

TL;DR: Prove it’s dead, lock it off, tag it, and try it—every time. Manage stored energy and verify before you start.

Why LOTO Matters

Uncontrolled energy causes some of the worst injuries. Effective isolation prevents contact with electricity, pressure, motion, heat, and chemicals during maintenance and non-routine tasks.

The LOTO Process

1) Prepare

Identify all energy sources (electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, thermal, gravity). Review P&IDs and SOPs.

2) Shut down & isolate

Stop equipment, open isolators, apply group locks and personal locks.

3) Dissipate stored energy

Bleed, vent, block, discharge, neutralise; verify zero energy state.

4) Verify (try-out)

Attempt a start with guards fitted; check for absence of voltage/pressure/motion.

5) Return to service

Area clear, guards reinstated, remove locks in order, communicate restart.

Controls & Documentation

Use isolation registers, hasp systems for groups, and permit-to-work where the task is high-risk. Train authorised persons and verify competence annually.

Quick Audit

✅ Up-to-date isolation procedures
✅ Correct locks/hasps/tags available
✅ Test equipment calibrated
✅ Evidence of verification steps recorded
✅ Annual competence refreshers

Further Resources

About the Author: Jade Anderson writes about energy isolation, maintenance safety, and permit-to-work best practice.

Standardise isolation

LOTO kit + templates

Procedures, checklists, and signage.

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