Which Cable Lockout is Best?

A cable lockout device is a highly versatile device used for lockout / tagout programmes and procedures.

Its versatility comes from the ability to wrap the cable around a valve wheel rim, valve lever or electrical isolator lever. Once threaded into place, the end of cable then passes back into the body of the device and be clamped and locked in place with a safety padlock.

With so many different versions of cable lockout available, what features should you consider?

• Cable retraction. Some devices enable the cable to be retracted into the device body when not in use. This is a handy feature when it comes to storing the device. Devices which don’t have this feature will end up with the cable trailing loose in your storage area. Look at this example.
• Cable length. Don’t be concerned about ordering a cable lockout with excessively long cable. Having a cable that’s too short might end up not reaching the lock off points required. This version is available with a 15m cable.
• Cable material. Generally, the choice here is bare steel cable, cable with a vinyl coating or a nylon, non-conductive cable. This version has a non-conductive cable.
• A very important feature is the ability to pull up excess slack in the cable without the need to removing padlocks and releasing the cable. This version is adjustable and enables slack to be removed without the need to remove the padlocks.
• With Rotating Head (wheel) cable lockouts you have a choice of different cable lengths, as well as a colour choice (red, green, yellow and blue). Application of colour can be useful to denoting the process, or the personnel who applied it. This version offers a choice of colour.
• If cost is an issue, why not consider a car seal. This device is significantly lower cost, but remember it’s a one-time-only device. The cable must be cut, thereby destroying the device to remove it. Click here to see and example of car seals.

Remember, the integrity of your lockout device lies with your choice of safety padlock.

For more advice on product choice, or general help with your lockout tagout program, contact Total Lockout today. Need a site visit to appraise your needs? We’re here to help you.