Integral handle locking band

A plastic locking band for use with a container having an annular end portion defining a top opening and a removable cover overlying said opening, comprising:

• a split circular plastic ring, generally U-shaped in cross section, having first and second ends and including an outer circumferential wall, the second end being of a larger size than the first end to define a handle, a first support on an outside of the outer circumferential wall proximate the first end defining a first notch opening and a second support on an inside of the outer circumferential wall proximate the second end defining a second notch opening, circumferential spacing between the notch openings being a select amount greater than a circumference of the cover;
• and
• a band link having a first end and a second end, each end including a shaft receivable in the respective first and second notch openings, spacing between the shafts being substantially similar to the select amount;
• wherein, in use, with the split circular ring surrounding the removable cover and annular end portion, the handle is forced inwardly toward the first end so that the second notch passes over the first notch until the handle overlays the first end to secure the cover on the container.