Sikkerhetsinterlocks

Sikkerhetsinterlocks, often referred to as safety interlocks, are devices or systems designed to prevent unsafe conditions or actions in machinery and industrial processes. They are fundamental components of functional safety, ensuring that hazardous operations cannot occur unless specific safety conditions are met. The primary purpose of a safety interlock is to mitigate risks and protect personnel, equipment, and the environment from potential harm.

These systems work by detecting the state of various safety-related elements. For instance, a safety interlock might prevent a machine from starting if a protective guard is open, or it could halt operation if an emergency stop button is activated. They can also be used to ensure that a sequence of operations is performed correctly, preventing an unsafe state from arising due to operator error or incorrect procedure. Common examples include door interlocks on machine enclosures, light curtains that stop machinery when an obstruction is detected, and two-hand control systems that require both hands to be occupied to operate.

The design and implementation of safety interlocks are governed by international standards such as ISO 13849 and IEC 62061, which define performance levels and safety integrity levels necessary for different applications. Proper risk assessment is crucial in determining the appropriate type and complexity of safety interlocks required for a given system. Maintenance and regular testing of safety interlocks are essential to ensure their continued reliability and effectiveness in preventing accidents.