Guards are classified into three types: Fixed Guards, Movable Guards and Adjustable Guards, each chosen based on specific needs for access to the hazardous area and machine usability.
Movable Guards, whose appropriate use is recommended when access to the danger zone is frequent, include doors and flaps that must be equipped with an Interlocking Device (with or without locking the guard).
An Interlocking Device consists of three elements: Actuating System, Operating System and Output System. It is primarily designed to monitor the position of an Industrial Guard but can also be used to control other functions, such as stopping dangerous machine movements.
The EN ISO 14119 Standard, based on the operating principle and the type of actuator, classifies Interlocking Devices into four categories:
It is important to note that this classification does not indicate a Safety Level (PLr), but serves as a guide for choosing the most suitable device, based on a risk assessment.
Risk assessment is the starting point on which to base the choice of the most suitable Interlocking Device for your needs.
However, the EN ISO 14119 Standard describes some criteria to keep in mind during selection, including the probability of failure (device malfunction), the Required Performance Levels (PLr), the analysis of environmental conditions, and the relationship between the system's stop time and access time.