Electrical Isolation Devices e L-O-X® Series

Product Overview

The ROSS Controls e L-O-X (electrical Lockout and eXtinguish) is a local electrical energy isolation device designed to provide OSHA-compliant lockout/tagout capability directly at the machine, eliminating the need for personnel to travel to a remote main electrical panel to perform isolation. The e L-O-X is especially useful in facilities where the main electrical disconnect is located at a significant distance from the machine being serviced, a configuration that causes extra downtime and reduces LOTO compliance as maintenance personnel travel back and forth between the disconnect and the machine.

Each e L-O-X device integrates three key functions into a single, compact, wall-mounted enclosure: a lockable electrical disconnect switch rated for load breaking, a 3-phase power indicator that visually confirms voltage presence on all three phases (and detects phase imbalance), and Start/Stop pushbuttons that integrate with machine controls for initiating machine stop and for testing that the machine does not run after isolation. This combination of functions addresses the full OSHA lockout/tagout sequence: stop the machine, isolate the energy, lock the isolation device, and verify that energy has been dissipated.

The e L-O-X is available in 30A, 60A, and 100A sizes with rotary handle disconnects, and in a 200A size with a flange-type pull-down handle. All sizes handle voltages up to 600V AC, 3-phase. The device is 100% factory tested before shipment to verify all functions operate correctly. The NEMA Type 12, IP55 enclosure provides dust-tight and splash-resistant protection suitable for most industrial manufacturing environments.

The Stop button sends a stop command to the machine control system, allowing the operator to command a controlled machine stop from the machine-level e L-O-X station without traveling to a main control panel. Once the machine has stopped, the operator actuates and locks the disconnect switch, observes that all three 3-phase power indicator lights are off (confirming voltage is not present on any phase), and then uses the Start button to test the machine by attempting to start it. If the machine does not run, isolation is verified and the operator can enter the machine safely.

Key Engineering Features

• Local Machine-Level Isolation - Mounts adjacent to the machine being isolated, eliminating travel to the main electrical panel. This reduces LOTO time by several minutes per event, improves compliance by making the correct procedure the easiest procedure, and keeps operators in the area of the machine they are isolating during the entire LOTO sequence.
• Load-Rated Lockable Disconnect Switch - The integrated disconnect switch is rated for breaking load current (not just isolation after de-energizing), allowing it to be opened while the machine is still energized as part of the stop sequence. The switch is lockable in the OFF position with a standard padlock, satisfying OSHA 1910.147 requirements for a lockable energy isolation device.
• 3-Phase Power Indicator with Phase Balance Monitoring - Indicates voltage presence on all three phases individually. If voltage is present on any phase after the disconnect is opened, the corresponding indicator remains illuminated, alerting the operator that isolation is not complete. Also detects phase imbalance, providing an early warning of supply quality issues that could affect machine performance.
• Start (Test) Button for Isolation Verification - The Start button is wired in series with the machine start circuit. After locking out the disconnect, the operator presses Start to test whether the machine runs. If the machine does not start, this confirms that the isolation is complete and effective. This test is a formal step in the ANSI Z244.1 LOTO verification procedure.
• Stop Button with Machine Control Integration - The Stop button is a normally closed (NC) contact wired in series with the machine control circuit. Pressing Stop sends a stop command to the machine without requiring the operator to go to the main control panel. The red momentary pushbutton provides an intuitive, standardized machine stop interface at the isolation device location.
• 100% Factory Tested - Every e L-O-X device is fully function-tested at the factory before shipment. This verifies that the disconnect switch, power indicator, Start button, and Stop button all operate correctly as delivered, eliminating the risk of receiving a non-functional safety device and reducing installation commissioning time.
• NEMA Type 12 / IP55 Enclosure - Dust-tight and splash-resistant enclosure rated NEMA Type 12 and IP55, protecting the internal components from industrial contamination including airborne metal chips, oil mist, and coolant splash. Suitable for use in most standard industrial manufacturing environments.
• Rotary Handle or Pull-Down Handle Disconnect - 30A, 60A, and 100A sizes use a compact rotary handle disconnect switch for easy one-hand operation. The 200A size uses a flange-type pull-down handle for the higher-force operation required at larger current ratings. Both handle styles are lockable in the OFF position.
• Terminal Block Electrical Connection - Terminal block wiring connections simplify field installation and allow the e L-O-X to be connected to existing machine wiring without special tools or connectors. Terminal blocks also facilitate field troubleshooting and replacement of individual conductors if needed.
• Compact Wall-Mount Design - Compact enclosure designed for wall mounting adjacent to the machine access point, placing the isolation device exactly where the operator needs it. The compact form factor fits into tight machine layouts and does not require floor space.

Technical Specifications

General Specifications

Flow Performance Data

e L-O-X current and voltage ratings by model size. All models rated for up to 600V AC, 3-Phase.

Certifications & Compliance

Typical Applications & Industries

Machine Tool and Metalworking

• CNC machining centers where the main electrical panel is at the back of the machine and operators access the front for part loading, tooling change, and chip clearing. The e L-O-X mounted at the front access door allows local isolation without traveling to the back of the machine.
• Grinding machines requiring frequent wheel changes and dressing operations. The e L-O-X placed at the wheel guard door allows the operator to perform LOTO at the point of access, reducing downtime per wheel change.
• EDM machines requiring electrode change or workpiece access. Local e L-O-X isolation eliminates travel to the main panel and provides the required energy verification at the point of access.

Assembly and Test Operations

• Assembly fixtures with electrical actuators and controls where operators need frequent access between production cycles for part loading or fixture adjustment. The e L-O-X provides a convenient machine-level isolation point.
• Electrical test benches and test systems where operators frequently access the test fixture area. Local isolation at the test bench eliminates the need to walk to a remote panel, improving LOTO compliance on high-frequency access operations.
• Robotic assembly cells where the main machine panel is located outside the cell perimeter and operators need to enter the cell for robot teach or tooling change. The e L-O-X inside or adjacent to the cell provides local isolation.

Packaging and Material Handling

• Packaging machines where the main electrical supply panel is located at the end of a line and individual machine access points are distributed along the line length. The e L-O-X at each access point provides local isolation without requiring a full line shutdown.
• Conveyor drive systems where maintenance personnel access individual conveyor sections for belt replacement or drive maintenance. The e L-O-X at each drive section provides local isolation.
• Palletizers and stretch wrappers where jam clearing is a frequent maintenance task. The e L-O-X at the jam clearing access point allows operators to quickly isolate before entry.

Food and Beverage Processing

• Food processing lines where sanitation shutdowns require electrical isolation at each machine section. Local e L-O-X stations at each section allow sanitation crews to isolate sections independently and quickly.
• Beverage filling and packaging lines with multiple access points along the line where operators need to perform LOTO for sanitation or maintenance. The e L-O-X standardizes the isolation procedure at each access point.
• Mixers, blenders, and processing equipment in food plants where operators frequently access the interior for cleaning or product change. The e L-O-X provides a clear, standardized local isolation point.

Automotive and Heavy Industry

• Automotive body shop resistance welding equipment where weld tip change and electrode maintenance requires frequent access. The e L-O-X at the welder provides local isolation for the high-current welding power supply.
• Large hydraulic presses and transfer line stations where the electrical control panel is shared among multiple press stations. The e L-O-X provides dedicated local electrical isolation for each press station independently.
• Automated guided vehicle (AGV) charging stations and dispatch areas where maintenance access to the control equipment requires electrical isolation.

Remote and Distributed Machine Installations

• Machines in large manufacturing facilities where the main electrical panel room is more than 50 feet from the machine. The e L-O-X eliminates the time wasted traveling between the panel room and machine during every LOTO event.
• Process equipment in chemical or pharmaceutical facilities with strict access control requirements, where the main electrical disconnect is in a controlled electrical room but operators need to access field equipment. The e L-O-X provides a field-level isolation point.
• Pumping stations and utility equipment where the motor control center is in a separate electrical room and field operators need local isolation capability for routine maintenance.

Ordering and Model Number Configuration

The e L-O-X electrical isolation device is ordered by rated current size. All sizes include the lockable disconnect switch, 3-phase power indicator, Start (Test) and Stop buttons, NEMA 12/IP55 enclosure, and terminal block connections.

Select the model based on the maximum load current of the electrical circuit being isolated. The rated current must equal or exceed the full-load current of all electrical loads connected downstream of the e L-O-X.

All models are rated for up to 600V AC, 3-Phase. For single-phase or DC applications, contact ROSS Controls for applicability.

The Start/Stop control voltage is 24V DC at 1.5 amps or 110V DC at 0.5 amps. Ensure the machine control system is compatible with these voltage and current specifications before wiring the Start/Stop buttons.

All models are 100% factory tested. Include model number, quantity, and delivery location when ordering. Contact ROSS Controls at (800) 438-7677 for pricing and lead time.

Accessories

Padlocks for Disconnect Lockout

Standard industrial padlocks with 1/4 to 3/8 inch shackle diameter are compatible with the e L-O-X rotary and flange disconnect lockout holes. For group lockout procedures where multiple personnel must each apply their own padlock, a multi-lock hasp is recommended to provide additional lockout hole positions on the disconnect handle.

Lockout Tags

ANSI Z535.5-compliant lockout tags are recommended for use with the padlock on the e L-O-X disconnect. Tags document the lockout date, reason, authorizing person, and expected duration, providing the traceability required by OSHA 1910.147 recordkeeping requirements.

Related Products & Accessories

• ElectroGuard Energy Isolation System - Comprehensive integrated electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic energy isolation system with remote lockout stations, certified to Category 4 / PL e, for complex multi-energy and multi-zone applications. https://www.rosscontrols.com/en/series/1314-electroguard
• 15 Series Pneumatic Lockout L-O-X Valves - Manual pneumatic lockout valves for local pneumatic energy isolation at machine level, the pneumatic complement to the e L-O-X for machines with both electrical and pneumatic energy sources. https://www.rosscontrols.com/en/series/1287-lockout-valves-15-series
• Hydraulic L-O-X Lockout Valve - Manual hydraulic lockout valve for local hydraulic energy isolation at machine level, the hydraulic complement to the e L-O-X for machines with hydraulic energy sources. https://www.rosscontrols.com/en/series/3133-hydraulic-lockout-valve
• HBB Series Hydraulic Block & Bleed Valves - Electrically operated redundant hydraulic block and bleed valve systems for automated safety shutoff applications complementing e L-O-X electrical isolation. https://www.rosscontrols.com/en/series/1311-hbb
• DM2 Series Pneumatic Double Valves - Control-reliable pneumatic double valves for automated safe exhaust applications complementing e L-O-X electrical isolation in machines with both electrical and pneumatic safety requirements. https://www.rosscontrols.com/en/categories/529-hydraulic

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What is the e L-O-X and why was it developed?

A: The e L-O-X (electrical Lockout and eXtinguish) was developed to solve a specific practical problem: in many facilities, the main electrical disconnect is far from the machine being serviced, causing operators to make multiple trips between the panel room and the machine during LOTO procedures. This wastes time and reduces compliance, as operators may skip steps rather than make the trip. The e L-O-X provides a local, machine-level electrical isolation device with verification capability at the point of access.

Q: What functions are integrated into the e L-O-X?

A: Three functions are integrated: (1) A load-rated lockable disconnect switch for electrical energy isolation, lockable in the OFF position. (2) A 3-phase power indicator showing voltage presence on all three phases and detecting phase imbalance, providing visual verification that isolation is complete. (3) Start (Test) and Stop pushbuttons that integrate with machine controls for commanding machine stop and for testing that the machine does not run after isolation is applied.

Q: Why is the Start button called a Test button?

A: After locking out the disconnect, the operator uses the Start button to test whether the machine will run. If isolation is effective, pressing Start should not cause the machine to start. This test step is a formal requirement of ANSI Z244.1 for verifying energy release before personnel entry. The button is labeled Start or Test depending on the context because it serves both functions: it can be used to start the machine during normal production and is used as a Test button during LOTO to verify that the machine cannot start.

Q: What does the 3-phase power indicator show?

A: The 3-phase power indicator shows voltage presence on each of the three phases independently. If the disconnect is open (locked out) but voltage is still present on any phase (due to a backfeed, a mis-wired circuit, or a separate energy source), the corresponding indicator remains illuminated. This alerts the operator that full isolation has not been achieved before they enter the machine. The indicator also shows phase imbalance, where one or two phases are significantly lower voltage than the others.

Q: What current sizes are available?

A: The e L-O-X is available in 30A, 60A, and 100A sizes with rotary handle disconnects, and a 200A size with a flange-type pull-down handle. All sizes are rated for up to 600V AC, 3-Phase.

Q: What control voltage is required for the Start/Stop buttons?

A: The Start/Stop control circuit operates at 24V DC at 1.5 amps or 110V DC at 0.5 amps. The machine control system must provide control power within these specifications to the e L-O-X terminal block connections.

Q: Is the e L-O-X tested before shipment?

A: Yes. Every e L-O-X device is 100% factory tested before shipment, verifying the disconnect switch operation, power indicator function, and Start/Stop button circuit continuity. This eliminates the risk of receiving a non-functional safety device and reduces installation commissioning time.

Q: What enclosure rating is the e L-O-X?

A: The e L-O-X enclosure is rated NEMA Type 12 (dust-tight, drip-tight) and IP55 (protected against dust and water jets). This enclosure rating is appropriate for most standard industrial manufacturing environments including machine shops, assembly areas, and packaging facilities.

Q: Can the e L-O-X replace the main electrical disconnect?

A: No. The e L-O-X is a machine-level isolation and verification device intended to complement, not replace, the main electrical disconnect. The main disconnect provides the primary disconnection from the electrical supply at the power distribution level. The e L-O-X provides a convenient local isolation point between the main disconnect and the machine, with the addition of power verification and Start/Stop machine control integration.

Q: How is the e L-O-X different from ElectroGuard?

A: The e L-O-X is a standalone device for single-machine, single-energy-source (electrical only) local isolation and verification. It does not integrate pneumatic or hydraulic isolation. ElectroGuard is a complete engineered system that integrates electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic isolation with remote lockout stations, safety PLC-based control, grounding contactors, and multi-zone capability. The e L-O-X is appropriate for simpler applications where only electrical isolation is needed locally. ElectroGuard is appropriate for complex machines with multiple energy types, multiple zones, or high LOTO event frequency.

Q: How close to the machine access point should the e L-O-X be mounted?

A: The e L-O-X should be mounted within arm's reach of the access gate, door, or opening it protects. The OSHA principle that operators should be able to see the isolation device from the access point while applying their personal lock is a best practice. Mounting adjacent to the access point also eliminates the time and distance traveled during each LOTO event, which is the primary productivity benefit of the device.

Q: Can multiple operators apply individual padlocks to the e L-O-X?

A: The standard e L-O-X disconnect provides a single padlock attachment point. For group lockout procedures where multiple individuals must each apply their own personal padlock before entry, a multi-lock hasp can be added to the disconnect handle. Contact ROSS Controls or consult your facility's LOTO procedure for the hasp specification that is compatible with the e L-O-X handle dimensions.

Installation & Maintenance Guidelines

• Mount the e L-O-X at the machine access point it will protect, within arm's reach of the access gate, door, or barrier. Ensure the disconnect handle and padlock hole are clearly visible from the access point.
• Connect the three-phase power supply conductors to the disconnect switch input terminals according to the terminal block labeling in the e L-O-X installation instructions.
• Connect the load-side conductors to the disconnect switch output terminals. The load-side conductors feed the machine's electrical panel or control cabinet.
• Wire the Start (Test) button (NO contact) in parallel with or in series with the machine start circuit, as appropriate for the machine control architecture. The Start button must only start the machine when the disconnect is closed (ON); when locked out, the machine must not start regardless of the Start button state.
• Wire the Stop button (NC contact) in series with the machine stop or safety circuit. Pressing Stop should initiate a controlled machine stop from the current state.
• Verify that the 3-phase power indicator lights illuminate correctly when the disconnect is closed and the machine is energized. All three phase indicators should illuminate when all three phases are present.
• After installation, verify the LOTO sequence: press Stop to stop the machine, open and lock the disconnect, confirm all three power indicator lights are extinguished, press Start and verify the machine does not run. Document this verification test in the commissioning record.
• Label the e L-O-X enclosure with its isolation point designation (machine name, zone, energy type) per the facility LOTO procedure documentation.
• Include the e L-O-X location and model number in the machine's energy control procedure, including the specific steps for each operation (stop, isolate, lock, verify).
• Inspect the e L-O-X padlock hole and handle annually for signs of wear, corrosion, or unauthorized modification. Verify the power indicator, Start button, and Stop button functions annually as part of the machine's safety device inspection program.

Warranty & Global Support

ROSS Controls provides a one-year warranty on all products, covering defects in material and workmanship from the date of purchase.

Global technical support is available through ROSS Controls offices in the USA (headquarters in Ferndale, Michigan), Canada, Brazil, Germany, France, United Kingdom, India, China, and Japan.

Contact ROSS Controls USA at +1-248-764-1800 or (800) 438-7677, or visit rosscontrols.com for product selection, application support, installation documentation, and distributor locator services.

For applications requiring special configurations, higher current ratings, or enclosure types other than NEMA 12, contact ROSS Controls engineering for custom product options.

Download Catalog: https://www.rosscontrols.com/en/series/1315-electrical-isolation-devices