Safety & Training Short: Machine Safeguarding - Interlocking Guards

Objective: To assure workers understand the types and safe use of interlocking guards

Interlocking guards, also called interlocks, use a tripping mechanism to shut off the machine when a guard or cover is open or removed. They protect workers and coworkers from reaching into moving machinery.

Types of Interlocking Guards

Interlocking guards with:

• Proximity switches use a magnetic field to control machine movement.

- The disadvantage to this type of guard is that any type of metal placed in close proximity to the switch can initiate the starting action.

• Limit switches use a switch to initiate the starting action of machines.

- The disadvantage of this type of guard is that the switch can be easily by-passed.

• A key-activated mechanism is the preferred type of interlock guard, because it is the most difficult system to bypass.

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