Trapped Key Interlocks (Die-Cast)
IDEM’s Trapped key interlocks utilise locks and coded keys for sequential control of equipment and machinery to ensure safe operation. Trapped key interlocks are widely used to ensure safe access to potentially live or dangerous plant or equipment in an industrial setting.
- Mirror Polished Die-Cast Metal
- Robust with High Mechanical Integrity
- Comprehensive Range
- Thousands of Mechanical Key Codes

what to consider when designing a trapped key system:
Stage 1: Isolation
The first stage of any trapped key system is to isolate the power or control circuit. This should STOP any hazardous processes.
Stage 2: Key Exchange
The second stage is exchange. The isolator key can be used to open 1 access lock at a time or, if there are multiple access locks, a key exchange can be used.
Stage 3: Access Control
Access locks prevent entry to the hazardous areas. Only when the correct coded key is presented, will entry be permitted.
Stage 4: Personnel Key
The personnel key is predominately used in full body access situations, allowing the user to operate safely inside the hazardous area.

Stage 1: Isolation
The first stage of any trapped key system is to isolate the power or control circuit. This must STOP any hazardous processes associated with the area you are trying to access.
Power Isolation
Turning and removing the key isolates the power up to 63A. Available in pane or box mount options depending on your requirements.
Power Isolation with Solenoid Controlled Key Release
The solenoid holds the key in place to enforce a run-down, allowing time for the hazard to be removed. Turning and removing the key isolations the power up to 63A.
Control Switch Isolation
Isolate the control circuit using a key switch. Turning the key activates the internal contact block, sending a stop signal to the safety controller. This is the most common method of isolation.
Control Switch Isolation with Solenoid Controlled Key Release
The solenoid holds the key in place, enforcing a rundown time until the hazard has been removed. Turning the key triggers the internal contact block, sending a stop signal to the safety monitoring device.
Mechanical Isolation of Switchgear
IDEM mechanical interlocks mount directly to electrical equipment and act as a physical barrier to electrical switches and power buttons, ensuring the state of power cannot be mistakenly changed.
Stage 2: Key Exchange
The second stage is exchange. The isolator key can be used to open 1 access lock at a time or, if there are multiple access locks, a key exchange can be used. Depending on your requirement, there are different types available, ranging from simple to complex systems.
Vertical Key Exchange System
The vertical key exchange system is available with 1 key in and up to 9 keys out. The slim line design is simple to mount, perfect for when space is a premium.
Multi-Key MX Exchange Panel
The multi-key exchange system is available for larger, more complex requirements. There are three types available: 8-key, 12-key and 20-key panels with options box mount.
Control Switch and Key Exchange Combined
The CS-Range combines control switch isolation and key exchange, providing a highly configurable key exchange system that mounts directly to your panel.
Stage 3: Access Control
The third stage is access control. Access locks prevent entry to the hazardous areas, only when the correct coded key is presented will entry be permitted. Depending on your application, we have a range of access interlocks with both single and dual key options.
Single Key Trapped Key Access Interlocks
Single key access locks ensure that a guard or door is locked closed under normal operating conditions.
Dual Key Trapped Key Access Interlocks
Dual key access locks ensure that a guard or door is locked closed under normal operating conditions. The second key (often refered to as the personnel key) should be taken inside the hazardous area to reduce the likelihood of an inadvertent start-up.
Trapped Key Interlock with Solenoid Controlled Key Release
Gate access locks with solenoid controlled key release for enforcing a rundown period. The release key can be used to aid the prevention of inadvertent start-ups.
Choose Your Key Coding
Thousands of mechanically coded keys available. Custom key labels are available in a range of colours for quick identification.
IDEM Safety Switches Site Content Guide
This site features the range of Machine Safety Switches from IDEM Safety Switches as the UK’s leading designer and manufacturer of Safety Interlock Switches, Monitoring Devices and Machine Sensors. The site showcases our safety switch innovation and technology with many differing types of switches including Rope Pull Safety Switches, Trapped Key Exchange Systems and Safety Relays.
The range of safety switches includes Coded Magnetic Non-Contact Safety Interlock Switches, Magnetic Non-Contact Safety Interlock Switches, Mechanical Tongue Safety Interlock Switches, Solenoid Locking Safety Interlock Switches, RFID Coded Safety Interlock Switches, Safety Relays and Safety Sensors all designed here at IDEM Safety Switches. Machine Safety Switches are shown including Guard Switches, Position Switches, Magnetic Switches, Coded Switches, Limit Switches and Belt Alignment Switches.
Please use the contact link to seek information on the full range of Machine Safety Switches, Rope Safety Switches and other Safety Interlock Switch products.
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