Mechanical Interlock vs Cut-Off (Isolation) Safety Switch
Knowing the difference can prevent serious incidents.
In machine safety, these two devices are often confused — but they serve different risk-control purposes.
Mechanical Interlock (Guard Interlock)
A mechanical interlock is designed to prevent access to danger while the machine is operating.
How it works:
-Machine cannot
Mechanical Interlock vs Cut-Off (Isolation) Safety Switch
Knowing the difference can prevent serious incidents.
In machine safety, these two devices are often confused — but they serve different risk-control purposes.
Mechanical Interlock (Guard Interlock)
A mechanical interlock is designed to prevent access to danger while the machine is operating.
How it works:
-Machine cannot start unless the guard/door is closed
-Opening the guard stops the machine immediately
Where to use:
-Moving machinery with exposed hazards
-Rotating parts, conveyors, presses, mixers
-Any situation where human access during operation is dangerous
Key intent:
👉 Prevent access to the hazard
Cut-Off / Isolation Safety Switch
A cut-off (isolation) switch is used to disconnect the energy supply to a machine.
How it works:
-Manually isolates power (electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic)
-Used during maintenance, cleaning, servicing, fault-finding
Where to use:
-Lock-out / Tag-out (LOTO) situations
-Maintenance and breakdown activities
-Equipment with stored or residual energy
Key intent:
- Make the machine safe to work on
Important takeaway
-Interlocks protect people during normal operation
-Isolation switches protect people during maintenance and servicing
One does not replace the other
Effective safety systems often require both
If you’re reviewing machine risk assessments or guarding designs, this distinction matters.
📩 Questions on machine safety or risk control?
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