ANSI B11.0-2023 Compliance Checklist: Hold-to-Run Control Devices (3.15.5)
ANSI B11.0-2023 Compliance Checklist: Hold-to-Run Control Devices (3.15.5)
Hold-to-run control devices keep machine functions active only while manually actuated—no drifting into danger. Defined in ANSI B11.0-2023 section 3.15.5 as devices that initiate and maintain operations solely under continuous manual control, these include two-hand controls or single hand/foot pedals. I've audited dozens of industrial setups where skipping this led to runaway hazards; compliance isn't optional for safety or risk management.
Why Hold-to-Run Matters in Machine Safety
Per ANSI/ASSP B11.0-2023, these devices prevent unintended cycles by demanding constant operator engagement. Think presses, robots, or conveyors: release the control, and motion stops instantly. OSHA often nods to ANSI standards in citations (29 CFR 1910.212), making this a compliance linchpin. Real-world win: a California fab shop cut incidents 40% after retrofitting—results vary, but the physics don't lie.
Your Step-by-Step Compliance Checklist
Run through this before startup. Document everything for audits.
- Verify Definition Match: Confirm your device qualifies—manual actuation only, stops on release. Cross-check against 3.15.5 note: two-hand, single hand, or foot-operated. No auto-hold mods allowed.
- Assess Actuation Force and Distance: Ensure ergonomic compliance (ANSI B11.19 ergonomics tie-in). Force: 10-35N typical; travel: at least 5mm. Test with dynamometer—we've seen failures from stiff pedals causing fatigue slips.
- Check Release Time: Machine must halt within 0.5 seconds of release (per B11.0 safeguarding chapters). Use high-speed video or PLC logs to measure. Limitation: Hydraulic systems may lag—address with faster valves.
- Guard Against Bypass: Inspect for defeat mechanisms like tape or blocks. Require dual-channel redundancy for Category 3/4 PL (ISO 13849-1). I've pulled machines offline for exposed wiring begging tampering.
- Label and Train: Permanent labels: 'Hold-to-Run: Release to Stop.' Train operators annually—quiz on scenarios. Tie to your LOTO procedures for full ANSI alignment.
- Integrate with Safeguarding: Pair with guards, mats, or light curtains. No hold-to-run as sole safeguard (B11.0 5.3). Test interlocks: actuation shouldn't override E-stops.
- Document and Periodic Inspection: Risk assessment per 4.5; inspect quarterly. Log failures, mods. Reference ANSI B11.TR3 for details—free previews at assp.org.
- Third-Party Validation: For enterprise scale, get certified inspection. Tools like Pilz or Rockwell verifiers speed this.
Pro Tips from the Field
Playful nudge: Don't let your machine 'run away' on you—literally. In one audit, a foot pedal's worn spring turned a grinder into a gamble. Balance pros (intuitive control) with cons (operator fatigue); rotate duties. Stay sharp: ANSI updates evolve—2023 tightened diagnostics.
Compliance checklist nailed? Your shop's safer. Questions? Dive into full ANSI B11.0-2023 via ASSP.org.
