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Locking switch for workshop

JDW

I have two small machines running from a dedicated 16a radial circuit both on switched fused spurs 

I want to add some safety so the machines cannot be operated, I was thinking of adding a locking switch in the circuit  

Would this switch (see link) fitted before both the machines be adequate?

https://www.screwfix.com/p/schneider-electric-lisse-20ax-1-gang-dp-locking-control-switch-white/9515j

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    Probably better to use rotary isolators and padlocks.

     

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    Its only for a small home workshop, just to stop the kids messing if they ever got in there. 

     

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    Yep use the key switch which would be better and easier to use.

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    Either the key switch or the rotary isolator and padlock would be fine.

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    Depends a bit on the load and what exactly is being isolated -  I tend to go in at the roots and cut off all sockets, and then a larger 32A switch or so but if this is just a single load then the key switch is neater and more likely to be actually used - faffing with a padlock that is in the pocket of the other jacket or something makes it likely to be left off.

    Personally I have a stop go push button type thing with an extra e-stop on the doorframe, but that supplies a 1920s open belt driven lathe and a number of mechanical and electrical things that are all finger nipping good on the bench, so unless your risk is similar then you probably do not need to copy my paranoia.

    And if you are like me, then the kids grow up  in a few years and soon are better on the machines than I am…

    Mike.

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    I agree that such a switch would be suitable, but another option, which would be a bit of a faff, would be to remove the fuse +/- fuse holder. For added security, some of them may have a padlock inserted through the fuse holder once it has been pulled out and emptied.

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    Or a “secret key” SFCU.

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    Thank you for your help, I think the padlock would be too much faffing.

    Would fitting the switch next to the workshop CU feeding the two fused spurs be acceptable?

    The Machines are a small Lathe (750W) and a mill (1500W) 

    I was also thinking of fitting a bulkhead light on an un-switched spur so I would know if the circuit was left on

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    JDW: 
     

    Thank you for your help, I think the padlock would be too much faffing.

    Would fitting the switch next to the workshop CU feeding the two fused spurs be acceptable?

    The Machines are a small Lathe (750W) and a mill (1500W) 

    I was also thinking of fitting a bulkhead light on an un-switched spur so I would know if the circuit was left on

    Yes, fitting the keyswitch next to the consumer unit should be fine, provided that this location is convenient for operating the switch. An external bulkhead light perhaps with a coloured bulb, to act as a reminder sounds a good idea.

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    JDW: 
    I was also thinking of fitting a bulkhead light on an un-switched spur so I would know if the circuit was left on

    You may be able to find a switch with a neon light.

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