Alternative Methods of Hazardous Energy Control

Traditional lockout to a full zero-energy state is not practicable in all situations. When lockout affects tasks considered integral to a company's production process, or traditional lockout procedures prohibit the completion of specific tasks, other methods of hazardous energy control must be used.

Various methods of alternative hazardous energy control are covered by the CSA Z460-13 standard. These include the following:

Hold-to-run device - These devices require direct pressure be applied to one or more buttons or switches by one or both hands. If the button or switch is released, a signal is sent to the control system; these devices are only meant to protect the sole individual using it.

Light curtains and single opto-electronic beams - Both of these devices create a sensing plane composed of one or more transmitting elements and one or more receiving elements. When an object or person interrupts one or more beams, the device sends a signal to the control system.

Pressure mats - These mats are used to detect the presence of a person or object on a surface used for walking. A signal is sent to the control system when downward pressure is applied to the mat.

Safety-rated switches - These switches are tamper-resistant and mechanically actuated devices with positively driven multiple contacts. Magnetic switches may be safety rated if they have monitored contacts and are coded.

Stop devices - These devices are usually found in the form of buttons, cables, or position and edge sensors that activate a switch. When activated, the device sends a signal to the control system.

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