A switch lockout device prevents access to the electrical source of machinery, typically during repairs and maintenance. You can place the lockout on a wall switch or on a circuit breaker. Wall switch lockouts are also useful if a toggle or rocker switch needs to remain in an "on" or "off" position.

Switch lockout devices are often in bright colors, such as yellow or red, to alert workers of a potentially hazardous situation. Heavy-duty plastic is a common and affordable material for switch lockout devices. Lockout tags can be on the lockout device to inform workers of who ordered the lockout and on what date. When purchasing a switch lockout device, consider the following:

1. Use a wall switch lockout device to prevent a toggle or rocker switch from being moved.

2. Order circuit breaker switch lockout devices to lockout the electrical supply.

3. Find multiple switch lockout device components in a switch lockout kit.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find switch lockout device providers for wall switches

Wall switch lockout devices prevent access to wall-mounted toggle or rocker switches. This type of lockout device prevents access by covering the entire wall plate or by preventing someone from moving the switch from its position. Toggle and rocker switches commonly control lights, but can also control the electrical supply to outlets.

I recommend: Purchase a wall switch lockout device from Brady. These wall switch lockouts are easily installed using the existing wall plate screws. Seton Identification Products offers wall switch lockouts designed to keep light switches in either an on or off position. Find a compact wall switch lockout device at Pacific Parts and Controls. This switch lockout attaches to the wall plate without requiring removal of the plate or screws.

Use a switch lockout device to secure circuit breakers

A switch lockout device for a circuit breaker locks out the electrical supply at its source. Circuit breaker switch lockouts include individual toggle switch lockouts, which are ideal when electricity from a breaker is still required for other applications, and circuit breaker lockout rails, which keep an entire row of toggle switches in the same position.

I recommend: Find a circuit breaker switch lockout device at Idesco. This product locks the breaker's switches in an "off" position without requiring any electrical or mechanical changes to the breaker. Graphic Products distributes Master Lock circuit breaker switch lockouts. These lockouts can be effective with nearly any style of breaker toggle switch. Browse a switch lockout device list of products, including breaker lockout rails, at Grainger.

Purchase switch lockout device kits

Switch lockout device kits contain both circuit breaker lockouts and wall switch lockouts. Many switch lockout kits include other types of electrical lockout devices, such as plug lockouts. In addition to the convenience of having several different types of electrical lockouts, switch lockout kits come with bags, pouches or toolboxes for portability. A list of the kit's components is typically in the individual model's switch lockout device information.

I recommend: Order a switch lockout kit from General Fire & Safety Equipment Company. The switch lockout device provider sells a kit that contains multiple breaker lockouts, a padlock, steel hasp, tags and a nylon pouch. Find a switch lockout kit at Toolfetch that includes several breaker lockouts and a wall switch lockout. Supply Line Direct offers switch lockout kits that contain breaker lockouts, wall switch lockouts, plug lockouts and a lockout safety training booklet.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  A switch lockout device typically needs a padlock to function. Unless you're purchasing a switch lockout kit, you often need to purchase padlocks separately.