This kinda stuff is hilarious. How can we engineer equipment so idiots cant F it up?
Unfortunately I spend lots of time dummy proofing.
Ive got myself in a bit a trouble before for this suggestion: Fire the first dummy that breaks the rules, and dont hire any more dummies. Problem solved.
That said, I am a fan of protecting pots. From accidental damage, accidental adjustment, and, of course, unauthorized adjustment. I personally like the lockable flip cover. If you are still worried about damaging that you should rethink pot location or even panel location.