Machine Lock-out Padlocks

[Lance Norris]

Does anyone have a good source for the odd sized padlocks for locking the "on" switches so unauthorized people cant use a tool? I am going to be away for a while and have visions of my wife cutting frozen chicken on my bandsaw. I need a padlock with a 3/16" diameter shackle for my Unisaw and 2 locks with 5/32" shanks. The shackle on the 5/32" locks needs to be 2" long.

[Gordon Harner]

I don't know where to find locks as you describe however, I can suggest 2 other alternative methods. 1) Use a small padlock like those used for luggage and put the padlock through one of the holes in the connecting plug. 2) Lockout devices that are like covers can completely cover the plug and be locked. These are available from most safety supply houses.

[Josiah Bartlett]

Turn off the power and then remove the breaker from the panel?

The best bet is an electrician's lockout tag from an industrial supplier. Some of them are essentially a padlock that you can put more padlocks through.

[Lance Norris]

Use a small padlock like those used for luggage and put the padlock through one of the holes in the connecting plug.

If I cant find the locks I want, this will be the way I will disable the machines.

[Cliff Rohrabacher]

If it really worries you: Take any metal box that you can pad lock. Cut little slots for the cables in the interface where the lid meets the box and apply something to keep the edges from cutting the cords and lock the plugs in a padlocked box.

[Wes Bischel]

Lance,
Try McMaster-Carr http://www.mcmaster.com/ catalog page 2877. There are items similar to what Josiah has mentioned.

Wes

[Reed Wells]

Just curious Lance. Can't you just say " Hon, don't touch the tools!"

[Lance Norris]

Just curious Lance. Can't you just say " Hon, don't touch the tools!"

That just doesnt work with this one. Im also concerned about my stepdaughter. This will make my mind at ease.

[Steve Clardy]

Grainger has a full line of safety lockout switches

[Peter Quinn]

Have you considered hand cuffs for your wife while you are away? Thats what I do.

[Jacob Reverb]

Just curious Lance. Can't you just say " Hon, don't touch the tools!"

That just doesnt work with this one. Im also concerned about my stepdaughter. This will make my mind at ease.

Have you considered something along these lines? Works like magic when my pointer ignores what I say...

[John Ricci]

Would the "through the wheel and forks" type of bicycle lock with the long shackle work for you?

J.R.

[Josiah Bartlett]

You could also just remove all the blades and stash them in a locker at the airport.

[Craig Summers]

You could also just remove all the blades and stash them in a locker at the airport.

Just dont try to pass "The Blade" under the bathroom stall in the airport

[Ken Fitzgerald]

Walmart carries suitcase/baggage locks. In most cases they will discourage casual use. Short of cutting off power cords, nothing will deter determined useage.