E-Stop Guarding 1

[QBall6]

thread301-181143

I am in a similar situation with the E-Stop delima. I need to find supporting information specifically about using guarding around E-Stops like the "U" shaped protection guards. Can anyone help me with this? I don't think that it is legal to put guarding around an E-Stop Pushbutton anyway.

 

[btrueblood]

Why would you guard it? If it is in a location where passers-by can bump it and cause nuisance trips, then perhaps relocating it (say closer to the operator's station?) may be a good idea.

 

[QBall6]

That is an idea but the true problem is that we have about 50+ E-Stop PB's on this line that are not illuminated and the system will only display that an overall E-Stop is active. This is the problem with nuisance trips is just finding them quickly once they are activated.

 

[btrueblood]

Ah. There are E-stop switches with secondary contacts for lights, telltales, etc. Of course, replacing 50+ switches won't be cheap...but I'd look at the website for the manufacturer of your current switches, and see if the switch bodies you are currently using can't be easily modified by adding/replacing another switch body to the actuator (button) you currently have, and get the added circuit for less cost.

 

[BobMeister]

I'm sure that there are State/Provincial and Federal guidelines along with a suggestion in the previous thread about the button manufacturer's suggestions.

Have you considered a simple fix like installing U handles on each side of the button to minimize accidental tripping? Something like the handles used on kitchen cabinet drawers?