How to use Circuit Breaker Lockout devices for Electrical Safety
Circuit breakers are devices that interrupt the flow of electricity in a circuit when there is a fault or overload. They are essential for protecting electrical equipment and preventing fires, faults and shocks. However, sometimes they need to be locked out to prevent accidental or unauthorised operation of electrical circuits. This can happen during maintenance, repair, testing or inspection work on the circuit or the equipment connected to it. Locking out a circuit breaker means isolating it from the power source and securing it with a lockout device and a padlock. This way, no one can turn on the circuit breaker until the work is complete and the lockout device is removed.
Locking out circuit breakers is part of a larger process called lockout/tagout (LOTO), which aims to ensure the safety of workers and equipment by controlling hazardous energy sources. LOTO involves identifying energy sources, applying lockout devices, verifying isolation, performing work, and restoring energy sources.
In this blog post, we will focus on using circuit breaker lockout devices to isolate and secure them. We’ll explain circuit breaker lockout types, device selection, installation, removal, and pre/post-use testing.
Types of circuit breakers that can be locked out
Different types of circuit breakers can be locked out depending on their design and function. Some of the most common ones are:
Miniature circuit breakers (MCBs): These are small devices that protect individual circuits from overcurrent. They are usually found in residential and commercial buildings. They come with a toggle switch that can be flipped on or off manually or automatically when there is a fault.
Moulded case circuit breakers (MCCBs): They are larger circuit breakers that protect multiple circuits or larger loads from overcurrent. They are usually found in industrial and commercial settings. They have a handle that can be moved to different positions: on, off, or tripped.
Air circuit breakers (ACBs): These high-voltage devices use air as an insulating medium to interrupt the arc when there is a fault. They are usually found in power plants and substations. They have a spring-loaded mechanism that can be operated manually or electrically.
Vacuum circuit breakers (VCBs): These high-voltage devices use vacuum as an insulating medium to interrupt the arc when there is a fault. They are usually found in power plants and substations. They have a solenoid-operated mechanism that can be operated manually or electrically.
How to choose the right lockout device for your circuit breaker
A variety of lockout devices can be used to lock out circuit breakers depending on their type and size. Here are some of the most common devices:
Clamp-on lockout devices: They clamp onto the toggle switch or handle of the circuit breaker They come in different sizes and shapes and are suitable for MCBs, MCCBs, and some ACBs and VCBs.
Pin-in/pin-out/pin-out wide lockout devices: These devices fit into the holes on the side of the toggle switch of MCBs and prevent them from being moved. They are available in different sizes and shapes to suit different types of MCBs.
Tie-bar lockout devices: They fit over the tie-bar of multi-pole MCBs. Available in different sizes and shapes, they are suitable for MCBs with two or more poles connected by a tie-bar.
Oversized lockout devices: These lockout devices can be fitted over large handles or toggles of MCCBs, ACBs, or VCBs
3 Steps to install and remove the lockout device:
• Turn off the circuit breaker and place the lockout device over it
• Secure the lockout device with a padlock and a tag
• Once maintenance is complete, unlock and remove the padlock and tag, and take off the lockout device from the circuit breaker
How to test the lockout device before and after use:
• Before using the lockout device, try to turn on the circuit breaker and check for voltage. If you can measure any voltage, do not proceed with the work and contact an electrician.
• After using the lockout device, check that the work is complete and that the area is clear. Remove the lockout device and turn on the circuit breaker. Check that the circuit or equipment is working normally. If there is any problem, turn off the circuit breaker and contact an electrician.
Conclusion
Circuit breaker lockout devices are essential for ensuring the electrical safety of workers and equipment. They help to isolate and secure circuit breakers from the power source and prevent them from being turned on accidentally or without authorisation. By following the steps and guidelines in this blog post, you can use these devices effectively and safely.
If you are looking for high-quality and reliable circuit breaker lockout devices, look no further than Tuffa Products. Tuffa Products is a trusted leading supplier of safety products and solutions for various industries and applications. We offer a wide range of lockout devices that are designed to fit different types and sizes of circuit breakers.
Order from Tuffa Products today and maximise electrical safety for your workforce and facility.
FAQs
Q: Are circuit breaker lockout devices necessary for electrical safety in Australia?
A: Yes, they are crucial for ensuring electrical safety.
Q: Which types of circuit breakers can be locked out in Australia?
A: In Australia, various types of circuit breakers can be locked out, including moulded case circuit breakers (MCCBs) and miniature circuit breakers (MCBs).
Q: How do I choose the right lockout device for my circuit breaker?
A: When selecting a lockout device, consider factors such as breaker size, type, and manufacturer specifications. Refer to industry guidelines or consult an expert if needed.
Q: How do I install and remove a circuit breaker lockout device?
A: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper installation and removal of circuit breaker lockout devices. Ensure that the device securely immobilises the breaker and can be easily applied and removed by authorised personnel.
Q: Is it necessary to test the lockout device before and after use?
A: Yes, testing the lockout device before and after use is crucial to ensure its effectiveness. Verify that the device properly immobilises the circuit breaker and prevents accidental re-energisation.
Q: Are circuit breaker lockout devices reusable?
A: Most circuit breaker lockout devices in Australia are designed for multiple uses, but it’s important to inspect them regularly for signs of wear or damage. Replace any damaged or worn-out lockout devices promptly.
Q: Can circuit breaker lockout devices be used in various industries in Australia?
A: Yes, these devices are versatile and can be used in a wide range of industries in Australia, including manufacturing, construction, mining, and more, where electrical safety is crucial.
