What are interlocks in machine guarding?

Interlocks in machine guarding are safety devices designed to enhance the protection of operators by ensuring that machinery cannot operate when a guard is removed or opened. This mechanism effectively prevents access to dangerous areas of the machine while it is in operation, significantly reducing the risk of accidents and injuries.

By incorporating an interlock system, machines are engineered to automatically stop when the guarding is compromised, ensuring that personnel are protected from moving parts during maintenance or when access is required. This safety feature is critical in environments where heavy machinery is used and reinforces the principle of controlling hazardous energy.

Other options do not accurately represent the function of interlocks. For instance, increasing machine speed or providing additional lighting does not contribute to safeguarding personnel from risks associated with machine operation. Similarly, while preventing unauthorized access is important in machine safety, it is not the primary role of interlocks, which focus specifically on the operation of the machine in relation to the status of guarding.