A new security device that immediately sends tractor and machinery owners notification when the lock is being tampered with has just come onto the UK and Irish markets.
Known as WatchLock, the device is a sophisticated padlock that sends an immediate notification to various registered users whether as SMS or email, or a push notification to a mobile app, if the lock is tampered with in any way.
The padlock can be fitted to any tractor, machinery or piece of construction equipment, even on the steering wheel. It also fits well with the very popular and robust Blockstem security lock which is also distributed by the same company, Derwent Trading International Ltd, based in the West Midlands.
WatchLock provides users peace of mind assuring them they are in control of their machinery or equipment. It does so by being a strong padlock that incorporates a sophisticated GPS locating system which will alert users in real time in any location.
If the lock is tampered with, forced or struck, the lock will send out an immediate alert to users so they know in real time what happens when it happens.
The success of the Blockstem device is due to it being manufactured in two sections from very heavy-duty steel. The tamper-proof Blockstem simply slots together over the hydraulic steering axle ram of any self-propelled machine, and is locked in place with a unique key when the wheels are at full lock.
Once fitted, the unit not only acts as an effective visual deterrent; it also means the vehicle can only go round in circles, thus preventing the vehicle from being loaded or driven away, even if the thief has the ignition key.
Blockstem, which is also a Thatcham approved P3 manual lock, is available in different lengths up to 220mm and diameters from 22 to 50mm. These dimensions fit almost all available makes of hydraulic steering ram on the market, but individual units can also be made to order.
Insurance companies, including JCB Insurance, are quite keen to offer large discounts to tractor owners that use both the Blockstem and WatchLock systems.
JCB Insurance is offering a 40 per cent discount if the Blockstem lock is used and a 45 per cent discount when both items are implemented. A price for both items combined is available upon request.
Michael Gregory, director and general manager of JCB Insurance Services Ltd, said: “Plant theft continues to cost the industry millions of pounds every year in both direct and indirect costs, so anything that stops or deters thieves from stealing plant and equipment is always welcome.
“Blockstem is a very simple but very effective device that securely locks the hydraulic steering ram of almost any vehicle. WatchLock has all the benefits of Blockstem but with an added battery powered GPS tracking device that can not only tell you its location but can also tell when the lock was locked or unlocked on the machine, leaving an electronic trail showing that the lock was deployed.”
WatchLock is a Grade 3 security lock that tells owners if and when an attempted theft was made plus if actually stolen, can track and locate the machine at any time via an online registration portal and a corresponding mobile app.
WatchLock is a versatile system that has many uses including locking shipping containers, barn doors, outbuildings, stables, implement sheds and fuel tanks.
