Multi Location Interlock or Lockout

[Zenney]

Hi All,
I have a situation where my main breaker is on the outside of my house and the main panel is in the cellar. The panel does not have a main breaker and can not be converted from a main lug. I was wondering if there is a device that works like a lockout/tagout but you physically need to take a part/piece or key from one location to another to activate/deactivate the other breaker.

In this manner it is impossible to have both on at the same time. I realize I can lock a key in one panel that opens the other but its really not that safe.

Thanks in advance.
Sean

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[LarryFine]

Will the exterior main accept a padlock?

 

[Zenney]

[MENTION=78816]LarryFine[/MENTION] Yes Sir..

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[LarryFine]

Why is that not suitable?

 

[Zenney]

Thanks for you help Larry, but Im trying to make if "fool proof". Maybe I should explain what im trying to do.

I would like to back feed the panel from my generator and as the main breaker is in a remote location I cant use a physical interlock. Im trying to avoid swapping the panel for one with a main breaker.

I travel alot so it would be great if my wife can do the swap over.

Maybe I'm over thinking it, but I dont want to kill anyone.

Thanks

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[iceworm]

https://www.homedepot.com/p/GE-200-...ency-Power-Transfer-Switch-TC10324R/100150463

DPDT switch
I don't know how big your service is. This one is 200A.
But I suspect you don't want one of these eihter

 

[iceworm]

... is a device that works like a lockout/tagout but you physically need to take a part/piece or key from one location to another to activate/deactivate the other breaker. ...

They are called a "trapped key interlock". Kirk Key and Castel are the only two I seen. There are likely others. I've never seen one for a residential panel.

I suspect the price will make a 200A DPDT switch look cheap.

 

[Zenney]

Thanks Iceworm, Thats what I'm looking for.... greatly appreciated.

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[iceworm]

Thanks Iceworm, Thats what I'm looking for.... greatly appreciated.

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Which one?
DP switch?
Trapped Key Interlock? If this one, I'll be curious as to the price.

 

[ActionDave]

...Maybe I'm over thinking it, but I dont want to kill anyone.

Thanks

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Which is a real possibility when it comes to back up generators. A proper transfer switch installed by a qualified electrician is what you need. And with that...

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