Operating handle locking assembly for an electrical switching apparatus

A locking assembly is for a circuit breaker including an enclosure and an operating handle operable between a first, ON position and a second, OFF position with respect to the enclosure. The operating handle includes a first aperture extending therethrough. The locking assembly includes a stationary element coupled to the enclosure and includes a second aperture extending therethrough. The second aperture corresponds with the first aperture of the operating handle when aligned therewith. A blocking element coupled to the operating handle blocks the second aperture when the operating handle is disposed in any position other than the second, OFF position in which the first aperture extending through the operating handle is aligned with the second aperture of the stationary element. A lock is inserted through the aligned apertures in order to lock the operating handle in the second, OFF position.