How to Wire an Emergency Kill Switch

An emergency kill switch, or E-stop button, is a safety device that turns off power with the push of a button. The work safety expert's goal is to remove all hazards from the operation of machinery, but this is not always possible. These systems are used with machinery that has some inherent risk in operating it. The position of the emergency kill switch is normally within reach of the operator. But sometimes it is placed close to an adjacent machine because the person in danger may not be able to press the button.

Things You'll Need

• Noncontact voltage detector
• Wire cutters
• Screwdriver
• Pliers
• Twist-on wire connector

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Instructions

• 1

  Go to the electrical distribution panel and turn off the power to the circuit you want to work on. Double check that the power is off by using a noncontact voltage detector touching the wires insulation.

• 2

  Choose a location for the switch that suits the needs of an operator in an emergency situation. This is typically close to the operating position or near an adjacent machine.

• 3

  With wire cutters, cut the power wire for the device in the location you want to install the emergency stop switch.

• 4

  Strip three-eighths of an inch of insulation off all of the power wires with wire strippers.

• 5

  Back the two terminals off slightly on the emergency stop switch with a screwdriver. Place one of the black wires under each terminal and tighten them down.

• 6

  Connect the two white wires by twisting them together with pliers and installing a twist-on wire connector on top.

• 7

  Double-check that the button turns off the equipment when pressed.