Maskinstopp

Maskinstopp is a Swedish term used to describe the halting of a machine or production process. It can be initiated by a person operating the controls, or automatically by safety and control systems. Maskinstopp encompasses both emergency stops and normal, planned stops, and is a key element in safe machine operation. In everyday use, it is often distinguished from maintenance shutdowns, which are scheduled with more extensive procedures.

There are several common causes of maskinstopp. Emergency stops (nödstopp) are activated when there is an imminent danger to people or equipment. Other triggers include equipment faults, sensor malfunctions, overloads, jams, overheating, and loss of power. Some stops are planned as part of routine operation or maintenance, while others are unplanned and require immediate action to prevent damage or injury.

Procedure and safety considerations are central to maskinstopp. When a stop is initiated, energy sources should be isolated where possible, and the area should be secured to prevent reactivation. Restarting a machine typically requires a formal check that hazards are removed, safe conditions are confirmed, and any fault conditions have been addressed. In many workplaces, lockout-tagout procedures and verification tests are used before a machine is brought back online.

Regulatory and standards context includes national safety requirements and international machinery safety standards. In the European Union, the Machinery Directive and related standards (such as ISO 13849-1 and IEC 62061) influence how emergency and process stops are designed, implemented, and verified. Compliance and ongoing training are important to ensure that maskinstopp contributes to a safer working environment.

Common improvements focus on reducing unnecessary stops and improving fault diagnostics through maintenance, robust interlocks, and clear operating procedures.