Machine safety, guard interlocks

[ControlThis]

My question specificaly is how do you determine if a safety guard on a machine requires an electrical interlock? Is it through risk assesment? if so, how? Is it if no tools are required to remove the guard? Any insight would be helpful. Also, references to specific standards that would outline this would also be helpful.
Thanks!

 

[fangas]

Machine guarding is a thing all it's own. Much is dependent on the machine, process, risk, human-factor.

Here's a good place to start.

http://www.sti.com/safety/index.htm

Ed

 

[controlsdude]

I used STI its a good product, also if you buy a PLC there are products that do roll the estop logic into the processor , example AB GuardPLC. I never used it but have heard good comments about it. I am sure there are other manufacturers of these products.

AB stuff is relabeled STI

As in all safety related products they are pricey.

Banner and Schmersal? provides the same products

As far as support the STI rep was a an OSHA rep so I got the benifit of the doubt that what was provided would pass safety committee in the plant. I guess thats a crap shoot on your rep.