Safety Lock Questions

Angusbuddy

Hello all I’m a collector here in the states and have been watching this site for about 7 months now during which I’ve added my 2 cents worth a few times. First I’d like to commend Paul for his efforts maintaining it and making it available to those of us that suffer this strange attraction to locks and the like. “Cheers Paul”

I’ve also noticed a large number of responders from the UK which is why I’m inquiring about the lock shown in the pictures hoping to get your input and thoughts to my questions.

I bought this about 13 years ago here in the states and since have not seen but maybe one or two others making me ask about any rareness if any?

ICI Imperial Chemical Industries was and still is a large UK based mega coorporation and established in 1926 as a result of 4 chemical companys coming together by merger.

Questions:

Any idea as to the maker, there are no markings on the lock to indicate?

Is there an abundance of these floating around the UK?

The lock measures 3 ⅜″ × 2 ¼″ × ¾′" in size, very well constructed and all brass. I guess another question would be why build a lock intended to be easily removed, twisted, hammered or pryed off and ultimately wasted in such good quality? Anything you might be able to offer would be greatly appreciated.

Regards, Angusbuddy :?::?:

oldbiscuit

Not sure of anything on this lock,but here in the states they use locks locks like that to secure valves to keep people from inadvertantly opening or closing. But in an emergency if the lock had to be removed to change the valve position and the key person wasn’t there the lock could be opened with a hammer. Being as how the lock is brass it wouldn’t cause any sparks to ignite a fire. We use locks with thin shackles on our electrical switch gear, fire sprinkler control valves and gas shut off valves.