Some tips on padlocks and lockout equipment lockout and tagout

Some tips on padlocks and lockout equipment lockout and tagout

With so many lockout and tagout software tools to choose from, it can be difficult to know which lock is right for your particular situation.
To help you through this process and avoid any confusion, here is a list of important considerations when selecting lockout and tagout padlocks. Click here for Loto Safety Course

Determine the correct padlock material:

The first step to consider when defining your application is to choose the right lock. There are three manufacturing material options to consider in this process:

Nylon Lockout and Latching Padlocks:

Nylon padlocks have a very lightweight body with shanks that can be either nylon or steel. They are ideal for industrial environments. Nylon shanks are plastic, non-conductive and do not produce sparks or static electricity, making them ideal for applications in electrical systems and indoor applications.

This type of padlock used for lockout and or latching is also designed for smaller spaces. They are very compact and lightweight in design, with nylon shanks that are non-conductive and do not generate sparks. Ideal for electrical systems, electrical maintenance companies or electricians.

Aluminum Lockout and Trap Padlocks:

Aluminum padlocks with steel shanks provide corrosion resistance and durability for harsh industrial environments and outdoor use.

Steel Padlocks:

Most are made of laminated steel material that can withstand severe physical abuse, and the hardened steel shanks with a protected body are highly resistant to corrosion and even areas with harsh chemical vapors than an outdoor environment.

Traditional Safety Padlocks or Lockout and Trap Padlocks:

The next consideration is whether a traditional safety padlock or a lockout and trap padlock would be more beneficial to your program.

What is the difference?

Traditional Safety Padlocks – These are multi-purpose solutions that can include cable locks for tight spaces or multi-point lockout applications. It should also be noted that this type of design can offer additional material options including aluminum bodies, non-conductive nylon, or laminated steel. The classic traditional design type includes a pin tumbler for the locking mechanism with a standard keyed lock. This type also means fewer key combination options, making it ideal for small group work and installations with fewer isolation points required.

Safety and Lockout Padlocks –

This type features a locking mechanism that includes a bladed or pin tumbler with unique key options, which is ideal for large organizations that use hundreds or even thousands of padlocks. The most innovative models are designed for smoother, faster insertion and removal of keys – even when wearing gloves. The system is generally linear and low-friction, which helps maintain key integrity, helping the padlock last longer.

Organizing your tools with the LOTO (lock out tag out) system of color coding, engraving or labeling.
Color coding, engraving or labeling padlocks are some of the ways large organizations communicate the maintenance status of machinery, reduce losses and ensure its operability. Here is a look at each of these approaches and how they can benefit your lockout and tagout system:

Color Coding –

Large organizations have benefited from color coding their locks to make changing or locating equipment easier. Color-coded locks can also let you know who is still working on a piece of equipment at a glance, improving visibility during the lockout process. Some companies have also chosen to color code their locks by location, preventing loss when in-house maintenance teams are working with third-party contractors.

Engraving –

This is an easy and more permanent way to keep everything organized while also communicating maintenance status. For example, a department may choose to engrave the department name on each lock, as well as the key code to make it easier to locate the correct key for the lock in use.

Lock Labeling –

Labels are very useful for keeping everything organized and can be quickly updated to inform of unexpected changes. They are usually made of durable vinyl and include a writing area with a pencil, pen or marker for those on-the-spot updates.