Best Electrical Lockout Kits for Safe Isolation: 2025 Expert Review
Oli
Owner, OR Electrics & 18th Edition Electrician
Electricity doesn't give you a second chance. Whether you're a seasoned spark or a landlord managing maintenance, proper 'Lock Out, Tag Out' (LOTO) procedures are the only way to ensure a circuit is truly dead before you touch it.
In my time working across Leeds, I've seen some shocking attempts at isolation—tape over breakers or notes stuck on consumer units. This simply isn't good enough. With the mix of old rewireable fuses in back-to-back terraces and modern RCBO boards in new builds, you need a lockout kit that's versatile and robust.
In this review, I'm looking at three lockout solutions: a budget-friendly set of pins for stocking up, a comprehensive quality kit for professional use, and a durable set for tougher environments. Let's look at what keeps you safe and compliant.
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Specs vs. The Real World
The Spec: "Universal Compatibility"
"Manufacturers claim their lockout devices fit every MCB and RCBO on the market."
In reality, some older breakdown kits found in Leeds properties—especially old MK or Wylex boards—can be fiddly. 'Universal' usually means 'modern DIN rail style'. Always check the fit before trusting it.
The Spec: "Complete Kits"
"A single kit contains everything you need for total compliance."
You'll often find you need more hasps or specific tags than a starter kit provides. These kits obtain the basics, but a busy electrician will need to top up consumables like tags regularly.
My Top 3 Recommendations
Three options to cover different needs and budgets
10PCS Master Miniature Circuit Breaker (MCB) Lockout Pins 8mm Lock Off Kit
TIANXUAN
If you're already sorted for padlocks and just need the actual lockout mechanisms, this pack of 10 is brilliant value. It's a simple, no-nonsense solution for standard MCBs. I keep a bag of these in the van because small components like this have a habit of going missing on busy sites.
The Good
- Excellent price per unit for 10 pieces
- Simple twist-lock design requires no tools
- Fits most standard modern breakers found in Leeds homes
The Bad
- Padlocks not included (pins only)
- Might struggle with very old, wide-toggle breakers
Installer Tip:
These are 'pin-out' style. Before you buy, check your breakers. If the breaker bas a clear hole on either side of the toggle, these are perfect. If it's a solid toggle with no holes, you'll need a clamp-style lockout instead.
Priced at £7.49 at the time of writing
Check Price on AmazonKooingTech Lockout Tagout Kit for Industrial Electric Power
KooingTech
This is a proper comprehensive kit for a professional electrician. It comes with the bag, locks, hasps, and clamp-on breakers that don't need a screwdriver to fit. The clamp-on style is particularly versatile for the various consumer units we see during EICR inspections.
The Good
- Tool-free button mechanism is fast and secure
- Includes a storage bag to keep the van organised
- Non-conductive thermoplastic padlocks for extra safety
The Bad
- More expensive upfront investment
- Bag is functional but not heavy-duty canvas
Installer Tip:
The clamp-on design here is a lifesaver for RCBOs where the toggle is slightly wider. Ensure the clamp bites tight before applying the padlock; give it a wiggle test. If it slips, it's not safe.
Priced at £29.89 at the time of writing
Check Price on AmazonLockout Tagout Kit Electrical Loto Kit with Safety Padlocks
Dioche
When working in harsher environments—perhaps a damp cellar in a Victorian terrace or an industrial unit—durability matters. This kit focuses on corrosion and temperature resistance. It's a solid middle-ground option that offers robust components designed to resist fading and seizing up.
The Good
- High resistance to corrosion and temperature extremes
- Writable tags that can be wiped and reused
- Includes hasps for multi-person locking (essential for teams)
The Bad
- Slightly fewer lockouts than the larger premium kits
- Tags are reusable but ink can smudge if not careful
Installer Tip:
The reusable tags are a nice touch for frequent testing, but for a permanent safe isolation record during a long job, I'd still recommend using a permanent marker on a standard tag to prevent accidental erasing.
Priced at £25.49 at the time of writing
Check Price on AmazonFrequently Asked Questions
Why is a lockout kit legally required?
Can I just use tape to mark a breaker as off?
Which lockout device fits my consumer unit?
What if I need an EICR and don't have this equipment?
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