I am looking for some feedback regarding safety interlocks on a CNC lathe. I visit a client on a regular basis and keep reminding them of the need for them to be fully functional, although despite my constant reminders they choose to bypass the interlocks thus clearly breaching the Act, PUWER and putting workers at risk. The reason for by passing the interlocks is primarily for setting up and establishing a datum point. The machines are HURCO VM3s and are only a year or so old. The operators claim that by passing the interlocks is the only way to view the DTI or locating device properly and with any precision. The machine allegedly has no "set up" mode or software installed like other machinery in use at the factory. Such modes enable the operator to set the machine under safe conditions. I understand why they have disengaged the interlocks but cannot support their decision to do so. I fully understand the hierarchy of control measures according to PUWER although when presented with such a dilemma i cannot understand why the manufacturer HURCO has overlooked what is an essential task when setting a machine. The machine is only operated by trained, competent and authorized employees. I have spoken to many of them and they have said that reinstating the interlocks will make the task of setting up difficult if not near impossible. I have recommended the company get in touch with HURCO but in the meantime i am searching to see if anyone else has experienced this issue and what they have done to manage the activity ensuring the safety of all involved. Thanks in anticipation of your comments allowing the

Generally speaking no safety interlocks should be bypassed without authorisation from senior competent management (remember not all management is competent.) In addition a procedure should be in place to ensure that this activity is strictly controlled and carried out in a safe manner. By passing just for convenience sake is a non starter. If safety interlocks are to be over-ridden back up measures must be put in place to protect against the same potential event that the bypassed interlock(s) was/were designed to protect against. Hope this helps - if you require any mitigation procedure tips please feel free to e mail me via the pm facility. Jon