Figure 2-23. - Multiple lock adapters.

Locks

Perhaps you are wondering what kind of lock should be used - key or combination? What person should have a lock? Who should be in possession of the keys or combinations? How should the lock be identified? The answers to these questions may vary from one activity to another, but some guidelines are as follows:

1. Key-operated padlocks are more commonly used than combination locks. Supervisors can control keys easier than combinations.

2. Locks should be issued to every person who works on closed-down equipment. No key (or combination) should fit more than one lock.

3. Only one key should be issued to a person authorized to use the lock. At some activities, the supervisor may be permitted to maintain a duplicate set of keys for locks under his/her control, or a master key. Some activities, however, may have only one lock-one key. In an emergency, bolt cutters may be used to remove a lock. As a word of caution: KEYS AND LOCKS SHOULD NEVER BE LOANED.

4. Locks should identify the user by name, rate, and shop. This information can be stamped into the lock case, stenciled on, or carried on a metal tag fixed to the shackle of the lock. In addition, locks may be color coded to identify the skill or rating of the lock folder, such as UT, CE, or CM. The colors could also follow the hard hat color code.