Trapped Key Interlocks for Ports - Health and Safety
Interlocks can be used in many process or procedural systems within Ports involving the transmission of electricity, including crane movement, Ship to Shore power, and local substations or backup generators. KIRK type DM locks with chain that are attached to medium voltage connectors located in quayside vaults ensure proper procedure is followed when connecting shore to ship power. These MV connectors feed the ships with crucial electricity, enabling diesel on-ship generators to be switched off whilst in dock, also known as cold ironing. The upstream breakers feeding the vaults are equipped with KIRK® type F locks, which are keyed to correspond to the interlocks on the vault cover or connectors. This ensures power is disconnected before the connectors can be engaged or disengaged, prohibiting operations under load.