What is a padlock for?
A padlock is used to secure lockout devices so that they cannot be removed. Each employee working on equipment should attach their own lock to each isolation point, unless a group lock box system is implemented. YOUR LOCK IS YOUR LIFE. Do not allow others to remove it for you.
Kinds of padlocks:
Different padlock materials are intended for use in different conditions:
- Aluminum -- Durable; strong; resistant to ultraviolet rays, chemicals, and high temperatures. Anodized aluminum can be used in food industry.
- Steel -- Durable; tensile; resistant to high temperatures and corrosive materials.
- Non-Conductive -- Insulated from accidental electricity surges or residual power seepage.
- Composite -- Lightweight; resistant to water, extreme temperatures, corrosive materials, chemicals, and ultraviolet rays.
Padlocks have different "keying" options for use in various circumstances:
- Keyed different (KD) -- Each padlock is opened by its own unique key.
- Keyed alike (KA) -- A single key can open all the padlocks in the group.
- Master keyed (MK) -- A single key can open all the padlocks in the group; it does not matter if the locks are keyed different or alike. These should be used for supervisor access only.
There are two types of padlock shackles. The most common type is a rigid "hook". The other kind uses a long, flexible cable that can be threaded through multiple lockout-holes or wrapped through gate valve handles to prevent movement, etc.
Brady has a Padlock Selector Guide that showcases many of the padlock options available.
