Electronically monitored safety lockout devices, systems and methods

摘要

A system for monitoring a lockout condition of a component includes a lockout device, a lock unit, and a reader. The lockout device is moveable between a lockout condition blocking operation of the component and an access condition permitting operation of the component. The lock unit is configured to be secured to a lockout interface of the lockout device to secure the lockout device in the lockout condition. One of the lockout device and the lock unit includes a communication module configured to communicate a data signal including an identification code identifying the one of the lockout device and the lock unit. The reader is remote from the one of the lockout device and the lock unit, and is configured to receive the data signal at least when the lockout device is assembled with the component and the lock unit is secured to the lockout interface of the lockout device.

主权项

1. A system for monitoring a lockout condition of a component, the system comprising:
a padlock having a lock body and a shackle assembled with the lock body and manually moveable between a locked position secured with the lock body and an unlocked position separable from the lock body; a lockout device configured to be assembled with the component and manually moveable between a lockout condition blocking operation of the component and an access condition permitting operation of the component, the lockout device including a housing defining a lock aperture sized to receive the padlock shackle therethrough, such that the padlock shackle secures the lockout device in the lockout condition, with the padlock being secured to the lockout device when the shackle is in the locked position; wherein the lockout device comprises a communication module disposed in the housing and configured to communicate a data signal including an identification code identifying the lockout device, and a sensor switch disposed in the housing and configured to be actuated when the padlock shackle is inserted through the lock aperture, to activate the communication module; and a reader separate from the lockout device, the reader being configured to receive the data signal when the reader is placed in proximity with the communication module, at least when the lockout device is in the lockout condition and the padlock shackle is inserted through the lock aperture of the lockout device and manually moved to the locked position.