Local isolator near drive, good or bad?

Question

We have been asked by operations to look at streamlining isolation tasks for mechanical and process jobs. 
 I have suggested having local isolators next to the required drives (belt driven fans / pumps etc), which can be operated by anyone, instead of MCC located isolators or even fuse pulling, done by specifically trained people. 
 
 I cannot find anything about best practice or pro/cons on something like this, so I a hoping people here could offer advice?

Harry Heathfield · Answer

Hello, Considering the motor is connected to a machine, you need to look at EN 60204-1 to ensure you remain compliant with the Machinery Safety Regulations (this standard is approved to meet compliance in the UK and EU). It's bad practice to use an emergency stop pushbutton with a lock to stop a machine for maintenance; a suitably rated disconnecting device must be used for the purpose you describe. To avoid repeating what the standard says, see the first paragraph of section 5.4 in EN 60204-1; you need to refer to other areas of this standard too, but this is to point you in the right direction. What you're suggesting is allowed; however, you will likely need to modify the maintenance procedure for this machine in combination with the ISO 12100 risk assessment carried out by the manufacturer. It's possible to add a hazard if you use an extra disconnecting device, so you need to assess how this will be managed. As the standard will tell you, you will likely need to provide suitable signage. 
 " 5.4 Devices for removal of power for prevention of unexpected start-up Devices for removal of power for the prevention of unexpected start-up shall be provided where a start-up of the machine or part of the machine can create a hazard (for example during maintenance). Such devices shall be appropriate and convenient for the intended use, be suitably placed, and readily identifiable as to their function and purpose. Where their function and purpose is not otherwise obvious (e.g. by their location) these devices shall be marked to indicate the extent of removal of power. Devices for removal of power for the prevention of unexpected start-up shall be provided where a start-up of the machine or part of the machine can create a hazard (for example during maintenance). Such devices shall be appropriate and convenient for the intended use, be suitably placed, and readily identifiable as to their function and purpose. Where their function and purpose is not otherwise obvious (e.g. by their location) these devices shall be marked to indicate the extent of removal of power." 
 Please don't accept my information as gospel; I am providing these details to point you in the right direction. If in doubt, please contact a machinery safety company with the correct liability insurance etc. Good luck with your project.

Local isolator near drive, good or bad?

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