Stop Time Measurement & Safe Distance Validation
At DAK Machine Safety, we perform precision stop time measurements on industrial machinery to determine how quickly a hazardous motion ceases after a safety control device is activated. This data is critical for proper safety distance placement of safeguarding devices such as light curtains, laser scanners, safety interlocks, two-hand controls, and enabling/jog functions to ensure that the stopping time of the hazard is less than the access time it takes the operator to reach the hazard.
Why Stop Time Matters?
A machine’s total stopping time includes the time it takes for the safety control system to detect the unsafe condition, signal the stop, and for all motion to completely cease. Without accurate stop time data, there’s a risk that operators could reach a hazard before it fully stops, even when safeguarded.
That’s why our team uses industry-calibrated equipment to measure stop times in milliseconds, in accordance with ANSI, ISO, and OSHA standards. We use this data to perform safe distance calculations, ensuring that each safety device is positioned far enough from the hazard to protect operators
Devices We Calibrate for Safe Distance –
DAK provides stop time measurement and safe distance validation for:
- Light Curtains
- Laser Scanners
- Safety Interlock Switches
- Two-Hand Control Devices
- Enabling Switches and Jog Functions
- Perimeter Guarding with Interlocked Doors
Each of these devices must be installed based on real-world machine stop performance, not assumptions or manufacturer defaults.
Ensuring Compliance & Confidence
We follow best practices from key safety standards such as:
- ANSI B11.19 – Performance Criteria for Safeguarding
- ISO 13855 – Positioning of Safeguards Relative to the Speed of Approach
After performing stop time tests, we provide:
- Detailed stop time reports per safety device and hazard
- Safe distance calculations, current distance, pass / fail and any variations
- Installation recommendations
- Validation documentation for compliance
