Emerson Safety Device Prohibits Unauthorized Access to High-Voltage Electrical Connections

June 2, 2022

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) estimates 350 employees are killed annually in electrocution accidents, which roughly equals one fatality per day. In the face of these dangers, OSHA officials and industry safety consultants alike recommend eliminating potential hazards on work sites, rather than simply relying on contractors or employees to follow safety guidelines.

To help safeguard employees from electrocution, Emerson has launched its Appleton Powertite Lock Collar, a device that fastens over plug and connector connections and is secured with a padlock, preventing unauthorized personal from disconnecting the cable connection once in place. It provides “peace of mind” to Safety and Engineering Managers responsible for optimizing site safety metrics. Since only qualified and authorized electricians can access these plug and connector connections, the Powertite Lock Collar reduces companies’ exposure to risk and liabilities from injury or death, and increases overall safety on sites.

Electrical accidents primarily occur because of negligence or unmonitored working conditions. For example, a welder working in a small, compact and cluttered environment may want to move a heavy cable out of their way. Despite knowing the safety code, the welder may not wait for an electrician to come, and will take it upon themselves to disconnect and move the cable. This is extremely dangerous since disconnecting an energized cable can expose the welder to arc flash or electrical shock. Painful, long-lasting injuries or, worse, death, can be prevented by using the Powertite Lock Collar.

Appleton Powertite Lock Collars fit both the 60 Amp and 100 Amp versions of the Appleton Powertite pin-and-sleeve plugs and connectors, as well as similar models from Crouse-Hinds. Its rugged, thick resin construction withstands extreme environments and punishing handling. The collar works with either the provided keyed padlock or all standard lock-out padlocks, such as American Lock from MasterLock.

Appleton Powertite Plugs, Receptacles and Connectors

Exceptionally dependable, Appleton Powertite plugs, receptacles and connectors have a durable copper-free aluminum construction with an epoxy powder coat finish assuring long-term protection against damaging chemicals, water, dust, and debris. They supply power to all types of heavy-duty electrical equipment, fixed or portable, such as welders, pumps, compressors, motor generators and power transfer switch cabinets.

The Appleton Powertite line provides electricians with fast, uncomplicated field assembly, superior reliability, and improved worker safety. To keep operations going and electricians safe while installing and servicing Appleton Powertite products, they incorporate features that include:

•    –   Energized contacts that are deeply recessed inside the terminal block to reduce danger of accidental touching and minimize possibility of exposed arcs
•    –   Positive polarization so that only plugs and receptacles of the same style, number of poles and Amperage rating can be used together
•    –   Style 2 Plugs, Receptacles, and Connectors provide ground through shell plus extra pole so that grounding pole, “makes first, breaks last”
•    –   30 through 150 Amperage receptacles include a screw and flip cover for NEMA 3, 3R and 4, 4X applications at no additional charge
•    –   Plug and connectors include a variety of grommets with many cable diameters providing ultimate application flexibility.

For more information visit www.emerson.com/appleton.