This document specifies principles for the design and selection (independent of the nature of the energy source) of interlocking devices associated with guards and provides guidance on measures to minimize the possibility of defeat of interlocking devices in a reasonably foreseeable manner.

This document covers principles for the design, selection and application of the following:

—     parts of the guards which actuate interlocking devices;

—     trapped key interlocking devices and systems for machinery applications.

NOTE            ISO 14120 specifies general requirements for the design and construction of guards provided primarily to protect persons from mechanical hazards. The processing of the signal from the interlocking device to stop the machine and prevent unexpected start up is covered in ISO 14118, ISO 13849-1 and IEC 62061.