Division 1.2.2 Control devices

Control devices must be:

• clearly visible and identifiable, using pictograms where appropriate,

• positioned in such a way as to be safely operated without hesitation or loss of time and without ambiguity,

• designed in such a way that the movement of the control device is consistent with its effect,

• located outside the danger zones, except where necessary for certain control devices such as an emergency stop or a teach pendant,

• positioned in such a way that their operation cannot cause additional risk,

• designed or protected in such a way that the desired effect, where a hazard is involved, can only be achieved by a deliberate action,

• made in such a way as to withstand foreseeable forces; particular attention must be paid to emergency stop devices liable to be subjected to considerable forces.

Where a control device is designed and constructed to perform several different actions, namely where there is no one-to-one correspondence, the action to be performed must be clearly displayed and subject to confirmation, where necessary.

Control devices must be so arranged that their layout, travel and resistance to operation are compatible with the action to be performed, taking account of ergonomic principles.

Machinery must be fitted with indicators as required for safe operation. The operator must be able to read them from the control position.

From each control position, the operator must be able to ensure that no-one is in the danger zones, or the control system must be designed and constructed in such a way that starting is prevented while someone is in the danger zone.

If neither of these possibilities is applicable, before the machinery starts, an acoustic and/or visual warning signal must be given. The exposed persons must have time to leave the danger zone or prevent the machinery starting up.

If necessary, means must be provided to ensure that the machinery can be controlled only from control positions located in one or more predetermined zones or locations.

Where there is more than one control position, the control system must be designed in such a way that the use of one of them precludes the use of the others, except for stop controls and emergency stops.

When machinery has two or more operating positions, each position must be provided with all the required control devices without the operators hindering or putting each other into a hazardous situation.