The more I think about it, the more I think the Spirit Locks/Ghost Traps are perfectly in-tune with Oddworld. The oversized padlock only adds to the madness, in my opinion.
I could absolutely see two superstitious sligs, fretting and bickering as they attach this ridiculous device, around a spirit totem.
Slig #1: I have a bad feeling about this. Why did we get pegged with Spirit Watch duty?
Slig #2: Are we getting paid over-time for this.
Slig #1: Time-and-a-Quarter.
Slig #2: S'mo BS! Hardly worth getting out of bed.
The Spirit Totem howels in torment, and both sligs panic and BS appropriately.
Slig #2: Let's get this bastard on here and go get some brew.
Slig #1: You looking all right, brother? You're looking a bit pale there.
Slig #2: Piss off!
I had too much fun writing that.