How to choose the right LOTO security padlock?

The LOTO security padlock is similar in appearance to ordinary civil padlocks, but there are several differences between the LOTO security padlock and the ordinary civil padlock. Security padlocks are usually made of ABS engineering plastic, while civil padlocks are in most cases made of metal. The main purpose of security padlocks is to warn and not to prevent theft, whereas the main purpose of ordinary padlocks is to prevent theft or break-in of a locked device.

LOTO padlocks are a type of security lock. These safety devices are usually used in conjunction with other devices to lock them in position, for example, push button locks, valve locks or cable locks. A LOTO safety padlock can be used on its own, while other safety locks can only be used in conjunction with the padlock to provide protection for disconnecting power sources. The safety padlocks are the most widely used devices, practically the basis of our LOTO system. They are made from a wide range of materials, using a variety of manufacturing and processing techniques, making a wide range of models and specifications available.

How to choose the right LOTO security padlock?

1. Measure the lockout points where LOTO padlocks should be placed if necessary

The very first step in choosing the right LOTO padlocks is to assess the areas and lockout points where the energy sources need to be disconnected and the padlocks need to be placed.

2. Specify the electrically insulating padlocks

For different machines, different padlocks are needed, depending on the specific requirements and environmental conditions. For electrical energy sources, electrically insulating and light padlocks should be used. These padlocks are specifically designed for use with electrical termination points and excluders. The lightweight body is ideal for locking small circuit breakers, push button locks and other electrical switches that may be damaged if heavy padlocks are used for insulation.

3. Specify the padlocks for mechanical protection

These LOTO padlocks are usually made of metal, depending on the environmental conditions. The locking of the energy source requires strong padlocks that can withstand the harsh environmental conditions that may occur in service. They are most often used in locations where external factors such as corrosive environments, heat, dust, etc. can adversely affect the life of padlocks if they are poorly selected. For these places, with 1-2 exceptions, the use of plastic padlocks is not recommended, and for such conditions metal padlocks with a maximum of plastic coating should be chosen.

4. Determine the length of the padlock shackles

The padlock shackle size should be checked according to the lockout points, as it is different for each exclusion point. The standard, which is generally 38 mm high and 20 mm wide, is suitable for most applications, but there are also low 25 mm and high 76 mm shackle versions. A version with a cable shackle, where the shackle is replaced by a wire cable, can be used for special sizes where access is difficult.

5. Define the padlock keys concept to be used in the areas

  a.) By default, follow the 1 key 1 padlock concept.

Never share or give the key to the LOTO padlock to a colleague during servicing or maintenance. Even in the case of group lock-out security, make sure that each colleague/employee has a separate key and padlock. This is known as a different keyed system, short for KD (Keyed differ system).

  b.) For multi-point locking by one person, the use of padlocks with the same key is recommended.

In this case, all locks within a set can be opened with the same key. This option is a time-saving solution and is advantageous if the same person uses several locks, so that only one key is needed. The same person can open all his locks with the same key. This system is called a keyed alike system, which is referred; KA (Keyed Alike system).

  c.) In a case where, for example, we want to give the person in charge of a particular workgroup a key to the locks of the workgroup members without removing each other's locks, we use the master key system. Designation MK (Differ and Master key system.)

  d.) When groups use the same key system and we want to give a master key to open different groups, we call it the alike and master key system; KAMK (Alike and Master key system).

6. If possible, choose a lock that only allows the key to be removed when locked.

This solution ensures that the key stays inside the lock until it is locked, so that the key assigned to the lock is not lost.

7. Determine the look of the padlocks.

The right LOTO padlocks are essential for the lockout of energy sources and for operational safety. Both applicants and users need to be aware and confident in their knowledge of exactly what they want. If you are not absolutely sure. Always seek the help of professionals who can help you understand the LOTO-specific requirements of your machinery.

You can check the quality of the LOTO padlock by examining the following:

I. Check the material of the security padlock

LOTO padlocks made of steel, stainless steel, copper, zinc alloy and ABS engineering plastic are currently available on the market. Some of them also have a plastic coated surface and/or a plastic shackle. Stainless steel padlocks have high compressive strength and strong corrosion resistance. It is the best padlock material for general use. Copper has a wider range of applications, excellent physical properties and a higher price. Made from high quality zinc alloy, LOTO padlocks are strong, wear resistant, corrosion resistant and easy to shape. For this reason, they are mostly used for locking devices. ABS plastic or plastic coated padlocks are mainly used in areas where the risk of electric shock is high and it is important that the padlock material is non-conductive.

II. Check the surface treatment of the security padlock

Metal surface treatment can be divided into three types: electroplating, painting and colouring. According to the metal surface treatment, the security LOTO padlock creates a high-density protective layer on the surface of the material, which is rust or corrosion inhibiting, making the security LOTO padlock more beautiful and durable. The dense film layer is also a benchmark for the quality of LOTO security varnishes. Most cost-effective security LOTO padlocks are coated by electroplating. The coating is fine and smooth, symmetry is moderate, colour is bright, no bubbles, no corrosion.

III. Check the national standard of the security LOTO padlock

Most countries have very strict standards for security padlocks, so fortunately most of the products on the market meet high quality requirements. LOTO padlocks sold in our country and in the EU must comply with the following standards:

• EU Directive 89/655 sets out the minimum safety and health requirements to be met when using the equipment. Article 2.14 stipulates that "all equipment must be fitted with clearly visible means of disconnecting it from any energy source".

• EN 1037 specifies the measures for energy separation and energy dissipation of machinery to prevent the equipment from entering a re-energised state. It ensures safe intervention in hazardous environments.

• The European Directive CEE 89/655 contains the minimum requirements for the safety and protection of workers during the maintenance of industrial equipment.

Security LOTO padlocks have a wide range of applications. Our products meet safety standards, are strong and durable. If you need security LOTO padlocks, take a look at our range or ask our expert colleagues for help.