Plug & Socket Lockout

Plug & Socket Lockout

When you work with electric machines and equipment, one of the most effective ways to prevent accidental re-energizing is to cut these machines off from their power source. Simply unplugging them from their sockets during maintenance and repair will not be enough, as anyone can pass by and plug them back in.


Thus, plug and socket lockout devices can ensure that machines will not be plugged back in while maintenance and repairs are ongoing. Plug lockout devices encase plugs and are locked with LOTO locks, thus making it physically impossible for anyone to plug a machine back in until the lockout is removed. Socket lockouts, meanwhile, go over electrical sockets and can prevent the machines in an entire area from being plugged back in.


These lockout devices are essential to electrical lockout tagout procedures. They are simple and easy to install but will be very difficult to remove by unauthorized personnel. Because they’re made of durable and impact-resistant material, they won’t twist, bend, or break without extraordinary force.

 

FAQ

What is electrical lockout?

When electrical machines or equipment in a facility are undergoing maintenance or repairs, it’s important to ensure that they will not be accidentally re-energized. Electrical lockout tagout thus refers to procedures that prevent unauthorized access to sources of electrical energy. These procedures help protect employees from injury or death.

How do you lockout an electrical socket?

Locking out an electrical socket can be as simple as properly installing a socket lockout device and securing it with a lockout tagout lock. As long as the socket lock is the correct size and is properly applied, it can prevent unauthorized access to electrical sockets.

What are pin and sleeve devices?

Pin-and-sleeve devices are often used to seal power connections in heavy-duty industrial applications due to their durability and consistency. Using these devices, power delivery can be protected from moisture, dirt, filth, and chemicals which are common in industrial workplaces.

There are five main types of pin and sleeve devices, namely: plugs, connectors, inlets, receptacles, and mechanically interlocked receptacles. Among these five types, mechanically interlocked receptacle is the least commonly used pin-and-sleeve device.

What is a pin and sleeve socket lockout?

Pin and sleeve socket lockout is a type of LOTO device that is used to keep electrical plugs from being inserted into sockets. This lockout tagout device comes in different sizes to accommodate various pin and sleeve socket sizes. The appropriate lockout device must be selected for the correct fit and effective lockout.

TRADESAFE pin and sleeve socket lockout can be easily inserted into the socket, after which a hasp and a padlock are affixed to ensure security and prevent unauthorized access.

Is a pin and sleeve socket lockout reusable?

Yes, TRADESAFE pin-and-sleeve socket lockout is reusable. This LOTO device is made of high-quality polypropylene which makes it reliable in harsh industrial environments. Even with heavy and repeated use, this electrical socket lockout is guaranteed to retain its shape and remain intact.

How does a mechanically interlocked receptacle work?

Mechanically interlocked receptacles are designed to keep plugs from being inserted or removed from the receptable while the power is on. There is a switch outside the receptacle’s enclosure which is used to power it on or off. The switch will be mechanically interlocked with the receptable if a plug is inserted. Only when the switch is turned off that the plug can be removed.

What is IEC 60309?

IEC 60309, developed by the International Electrotechnical Commission, is a set of international standards for “plugs, socket outlets, and couplers for industrial purposes”. This standard lists down the accepted types, colors, sizes, and keying system of sockets, outlets, connectors, and inlets. As an overview, IEC 60309 maximum of 100 V DC or AC for voltage, 800A for current, and 500 Hz for frequency.

How do plug locks work?

Plug locks are designed to go directly on electrical plugs. They typically encase the plug itself and can accommodate one or multiple plugs, or plugs of different sizes. Once the plug lock has been applied, it will need to be secured with a lockout tagout lock. As long as the LOTO lock is in place, it will be physically impossible for the plug to go into an electrical socket, thus cutting electrical equipment off from their power source.

People Also Ask

How to use an electrical plug lock out?

Open the plug lockout device and place the electrical plug inside. Apply a padlock to secure the lockout device. Make sure that the plug can not be pulled or removed from the lockout device once the padlock is applied.

What are the safety precautions for plug and socket?

  • Two-prong electrical outlets are outdated. If you’re still using it, then it’s time to replace your outlet.
  • Always check cords and covers. Exposed wires from damaged cords or chipped or cracked cover must be replaced. Give time to examine them because improper insulation can be deadly.
  • Do not overload an outlet. Never plug more than two machines using extension cords to prevent overheating. Overheating will make the wire insulation melt that can cause fire.
  • Unplug cords slowly and safely. 
  • Ensure that plugs and sockets are locked out during repair or maintenance.

What happens if you touch a live plug socket?

An electric shock will occur to the person who touched it. Moreover, the after-effects can also include headaches, unconsciousness, and more. Serious effects include burns, brain damage and death.