Kill Switch

A Kill Switch is another term for an emergency stop switch. They are referred to as a Kill Switch because they essentially kill the power to the machine itself.

Kill switches are used as a safety device on a variety of different devices within the industrial sector. A kill switch will cut the power to a machine immediately.

Our kill switches are a part of our safety footswitch range. They are a separate switch which can be incorporated as part of the footswitch on ground level to be activated by the foot, or it can be incorporated into the switch using a pole handle which is activated by the hand.

Why a Kill Switch is Required

Kill switches are a safety feature within various environments. For safety reasons, many industries will require a kill switch on certain types of machinery.

There are two main reasons that a kill switch would need to be actuated;

Safety of Workers – in an environment where loud machines are working and communication might be difficult, it is important that there is a way to shut a machine down. If a worker is in danger of the machine there must be a means of killing power quickly. A kill switch will help prevent injury to anyone who is in danger and therefore provides safety to the work force involved.

Machine Risks – in some cases, a machine in this environment may become faulty or malfunction. In this instance, it is important that there is a way to cut the power immediately. The kill switch is large and easy to actuate – it is easier to locate in an emergency than the main “on/off” switch for the device.

Kill Switches from Herga

Our kill switches are part of our heavy-duty footswitches. They are available as an add on which can be on top of the footswitch itself or the pole handle. Each design is easy to use.

Our 6256 footswitches are suitable for all industrial environments, they are very durable, reliable and sturdy.

For more information on emergency stop pushbuttons or to discuss your application please contact us.