Collection: Padlocks

Padlocks

TRADESAFE’s premium lockout padlocks are guaranteed to be durable, corrosion-resistant, and – most importantly – compliant with OSHA 1919.147 standard. These aren’t your ordinary hardware store padlocks. They are specially designed for lockout tagout applications and are made to withstand the demands of industrial facilities.

We offer both keyed alike and keyed different locks. Our locks also come with one key or two keys for each. All keys are engraved with a set of numbers that match the numbers on their corresponding lock. The locks also have a key-retaining feature, which means that they won’t release their keys until they’re securely locked. This helps provide an extra level of security and safety.

These padlocks are highly versatile and can be used in a variety of ways. Because of their hardwearing construction, they can withstand heavy and regular use. These lockout locks are included the lockout tagout kit and are usually used with appropriate lockout tags.

FAQ

What Is A Lockout Padlock?

Lockout tagout padlocks are locks that are made and used specifically for lockout tagout programs and procedures. They are utilized to securely lock a LOTO device, such as a valve lockout or a circuit breaker lockout. This prevents a source of hazardous energy from being turned on or re-energized during maintenance procedures.

These padlocks are different from ordinary hardware store padlocks. LOTO padlocks are designed to be compliant with OSHA standard 1910.147 and are made to be hardwearing, impact-resistant, non-conductive, and chemical- and corrosion-resistant. They are also able to withstand high and low temperatures and harsh environments.

What Is A Lockout Padlock For?

The purpose of a lockout tagout safety padlock is to secure and lockout a particular machine or piece of equipment. It can also be used to secure an entire area during the maintenance and/or repair of certain machinery.

These padlocks prevent access to energy sources that provide power to machines. Unauthorized personnel will be unable to access these energy sources as long as lockout tagout padlocks are applied.

When Is Lockout Tagout Required?

Whenever the OSHA standard 1910.147 applies, lockout tagout is required. Lockout tagout procedures should be implemented when certain machines or equipment need to be repaired or are in need of servicing. If the unexpected re-energization of machines or the release of stored energy can be harmful to maintenance or repair personnel, lockout tagout much be used.

Can Lockout Tagout Locks Be Keyed Alike?

Yes. Lockout tagout padlocks can either be keyed differently or keyed alike. When padlocks are keyed differently, this means that each padlock in a set comes with a unique key. However, when padlocks in a set are keyed alike, this means that they can all be unlocked by the same key.

Padlocks that are keyed differently are best used when multiple employees are deployed to lockout multiple pieces of equipment. Padlocks that are keyed alike, meanwhile, are best used when one employee is deployed to lockout multiple pieces of equipment.

Can Combination Locks Be Used For Lockout Tagout?

It’s not advisable. According to OSHA 1910.147(c)(5)(ii), “Lockout devices and tagout devices shall be singularly identified; shall be the only devices(s) used for controlling energy; shall not be used for other purposes….”

Combination locks can be unlocked using a code or a combination of numbers. Codes like this can be available to and known by multiple people at the same time. Thus, any one of these people can unlock the padlock at any time, even when it is not safe to do so. This, in essence, defeats one of the main purposes of LOTO procedures, which is to restrict access to hazardous energy.

For lockout tagout purposes, combination locks can fall short because they do not provide adequate protection against accidental or unintended re-energizing. This can put maintenance employees in danger. Padlocks with keys are far easier to keep under control and are more suitable for lockout tagout purposes.

It’s best to use padlocks that are specifically designed and made for lockout tagout procedures instead of using combination padlocks.

Who can remove a lockout tagout padlock?

Lockout tagout locks can only be removed by the authorized employees who applied them. Additionally, these employees must undergo the proper process of removing the locks and tags that they applied.

However, there may be situations in which the authorized employee is not available to remove the locks they applied. If the machine needs to be energized and used, the company or employer should have protocols that can allow other employees to remove locks that they did not apply.

What to do before removing a lockout tagout padlock?

It’s important that all employees respect the safety procedures of any lockout tagout device. Re-energizing machinery is a very hazardous work and all employees performing this activity should be fully trained or supervised to avoid injuries in the workplace.

The machine and its components need to be inspected to assure it is completely ready to perform. Furthermore, everyone needs to be positioned safely and as away as needed from the machine.

When can an energy-isolating device be locked out?

There are specific requirements the device needs to meet in order to be considered as capable of being locked out. 

It should be designed with a hasp or any other part to which a lock can be attached and it should also have a locking mechanism built into it. Moreover, the device should be locked without being altered in any way that can compromise its capabilities.

Why are lockout locks color coded?

Lockout tagout padlocks can be color coded and specified within any lockout tagout safety program. 

The color meaning can vary from business to business. It can be used to differentiate the different departments, the different machinery and also the severity of the danger involving the equipment.

What to do if the keys get lost?

If both keys get lost or they’re not available for any other reason, the lock must be removed. These lockout tagout padlocks can be cut with a bolt cutter, or a grinder with a cut off wheel.

People Also Ask

Do lockout locks have to be red?

OSHA has authorized 8 different standard colors for a visual reminder system, each with its own meaning. It includes Black, Blue, Green, Orange, Purple, Red, Teal, Yellow. But, usually, lockout locks are “red” because it indicates danger, a hazard that could cause serious injury or death.

What type of lock is used for a lockout procedure?

During a lockout tagout procedure, safety padlocks built particularly for lockout tagout are required. Meaning, these locks must be distinguished from ordinary locks, used solely for lockout reasons, and always identify the person who applied the lock.

Lockout padlocks should ideally be key-retaining to guarantee that the padlock is fastened and locked before the key is withdrawn. A lightweight, non-conductive type that may be easily adjusted for your facility is a good choice for a safety padlock.

How do you choose the right safety lockout padlock?

There are several factors to consider in choosing the best lockout padlocks for every workplace. Some of these factors are:

  • Padlock Body Material – Steel, Aluminum, Non-conductive Material, Composite Material
  • Keying Options – Keyed Alike, Keyed Alike Unlimited, Keyed Differently, Master Keyed, Grand Master Keyed
  • Padlock Identification – Color-coding, Engraving, Lock labels
  • Padlock Shackle Material – Cable Shackle, Nylon, Hard Steel, Aluminum

What is the difference between keyed alike and keyed different?

Keyed alike padlocks have the same key that can be used to open all padlocks from the same set. This type of lock is commonly used by maintenance personnel in charge of several machines or isolation points. With fewer keys on the keyring, it is easier to identify and use the right one.

Meanwhile, keyed different padlocks have different keys for each lock. It’s the ideal lockout solution if an employee commonly applies a single lock. It also ensures no risk of key duplication when numerous maintenance employees need to access the same piece of equipment.

How to properly label safety lockout locks?

Properly label safety lockout locks by engraving or using lock labels. The label should include the name or photo of the authorized person who owns the lock. More importantly, if you’re using lock labels, make sure to use a pen with permanent ink.