Safety relays were originally invented and used to monitor the shutdown function during an emergency. They have since developed and evolved to perform a variety of specific tasks. These tasks include monitoring the orientation of moveable machine guards, preventing a closing movement from occurring in the course of access, as well as performing controlled shutdown functions.

Essentially, a safety relay implements safety functions and reduces the risk of injury. When a fault is detected, the safety relay prevents that fault from causing damage to the individuals involved. They are predominantly found in the mechanical engineering industry, and form part of a safety circuit. Working around machinery is more dangerous than most realise, and can cause serious injury, or even death if safety precautions are not installed and implemented.    

How Safety Relays Work

Safety relays are made to operate according to grades of machinery. Each grade will determine the level of protection that the safety relay provides to the machinery operator; thus, the more dangerous the machinery, the higher the level of protection needs to be.

As a basic explanation, safety relays provide risk reduction by isolating circuits, and controlling high powered circuits. They do this by emitting a low power signal.

How to Use Safety Relays

Safety relays are relatively easy to use and operate. They have a very straightforward structure that does not require official training. Someone operating a safety relay would need some basic electrical knowledge. It is also necessary for the operator to have knowledge of the standards surrounding safety relays.

Safety Relays in South Africa: Where to Find them

Safety relays are very common, and are found in all factories and machines that could pose a risk to individuals operating, and surrounding the machine in question. They are compact, reliable, and should meet all safety standards.

It is important to ensure that you acquire a safety relay that complies to, and can handle the safety category that the machinery is valued at. If this is not ensured, a safety relay can be redundant.

There are a variety of safety relays available, and each one has their own function and application. At ATI Systems, we can provide you with the advice you need to ensure that you find the perfect safety relay for your machinery. Contact us, to find out which safety relay will protect your employees, and your business.