There are quite a few factors that should be considered, including the size and complexity of your locking procedure, organizational needs, and specific application requirements-such as electrical or non-electrical.
When choosing a safety padlock, managing the lockout/tagout procedures for multiple departments or facilities adds additional complexity.
Finding a lock with a secure key slot (the key cannot be copied in a hardware store) and a key code that is unique enough to ensure that there is no key duplication is a huge challenge because the key system can limit the number of keys available to the code. Look for the padlock with the most unique key codes, even with these different key options:
Padlocks with different keys: Each padlock has its own unique key, and this option usually provides the most unique type of key code. When ensuring that each lock in the facility is a unique and critical task, request a different key padlock with a key chart or key record. This is an ideal choice to avoid duplication of keys when multiple maintenance personnel need to lock the equipment.
Key-like padlocks: The most unique key code type is also provided. This option uses the same key to open each padlock. As long as you remember that OSHA requires no employee to open a lock used by others, a key padlock is useful when assigning multiple locks to a single employee.
Master key padlock: Master key can open all locks, including same-key and different-key locks, but provides fewer unique key codes. This option makes it easier for supervisors to remove the lock in an emergency.
Grand Master Key Padlock: The Grand Master Key can open all locks divided into two or more master key systems, but it limits the number of unique key codes that can be used. For large teams that require multiple levels of supervisory access, use this option.
After determining the correct key system, consider the most effective organization to track your padlock. Color coding, engraving or lock labels help identify machine maintenance status, related personnel or departments, and reduce the incidence of misplacement or loss of padlocks to help ensure compliance.
Color coding helps distinguish locks by industry, department, or job function, and visually convey who is still using the machine. Or, color-code your locks by facility location to help reduce losses when working with external contractors.
Carving is a more permanent way to stay organized. Consider engraving the department name and key code on each lock to facilitate matching.
The lock label can easily organize padlocks, and the on-site printer can be used to quickly update employee names or pictures. Pair them with a long body padlock to accommodate language or other details, such as department, phone number, or photo.
When locking equipment that is at risk of arc flash or conduction, make sure to use a padlock that is suitable for your work space and does not increase the risk of injury.
Non-conductive and non-sparking materials: Look for nylon body padlocks with nylon shackles and non-conductive ball bearings and drivers to ensure that the padlock does not close any circuits or create arc flash points.
Compact padlocks: When space is at a premium (such as circuit breakers), compact padlocks are ideal, and they can usually still accommodate closed circuit breaker boxes or electrical cabinet doors.
Cable padlock: For the locking needs of multiple circuit breakers, the cable padlock is an ideal choice. This padlock can easily pass through a series of circuit breaker locking devices, so you only need to lock one lock as a whole.
Post time: Jul-31-2021