I.M. Services Provides OSHA Required Stop Time Measurement Service.

Stop-time measurement is used to calculate the minimum safety distance required for safeguarding devices such as light curtains, two-hand controls, and interlocks. Accurate stopping time measurement assists in meeting OSHA and ANSI safety standards and helps minimize the risk of injury and operational downtime.

What is stop time measurement?

Stop time measurement is the process of recording how long a machine or hazardous motion takes to come to a complete stop after a stop signal is initiated—such as an emergency stop, light curtain interruption, interlock opening, or safety relay actuation.

Accurate stop time data is essential for:

  • Safety distance calculationsfor guards, light curtains, scanners, and other protective devices.
  • Verification of safety system performanceafter installation, modification, or repair.
  • Ongoing compliancewith applicable standards and regulations
  • Early detection of mechanical or control issuesthat increase stopping time over months or years.

Why stop time measurement matters

  • Operator protection:Ensures that protective devices are placed far enough away so a person cannot reach the hazard before motion stops.
  • Regulatory compliance:Supports compliance with relevant safety standards and regulations (e.g., machine safety and safeguarding standards) by providing documented evidence of stopping performance.
  • Risk reduction:Identifies degraded braking, worn components, or control faults that can silently increase risk over time.
  • Data‑driven decisions:Provides objective measurements to justify upgrades, maintenance, or changes to safety distances.

How our service works

  • On‑site assessment:We visit your facility, review the machine, its safety functions, and operating modes, and define the measurement points and scenarios.
  • Instrumented measurements:Using calibrated stop time measurement equipment, we record multiple stop events for each relevant safety function (e‑stop, interlocks, presence‑sensing devices, etc.).
  • Analysis and safety distance calculations:Measured stop times are used to calculate or verify safety distances for guards and devices, based on applicable formulas and standards.
  • Clear documentation:You receive a detailed report including:
    • Measured stop times and test conditions
    • Safety distance calculations and assumptions
    • Observed issues or non‑conformances
    • Recommended corrective actions or improvements
  • Follow‑up support:We can assist with implementing recommended changes, retesting after modifications, and setting up periodic re‑measurement schedules.

Typical applications

  • Presses and press brakes
  • Robotic cells and automated lines
  • Conveyors and material handling systems
  • Packaging and converting machinery
  • Machine tools and special‑purpose equipment

If your machine has hazardous motion and relies on guards, light curtains, scanners, or interlocks, stop time measurement is a critical part of validating the safety system.

Benefits of working with us

  • Specialized expertise:Focus on industrial machine safety and stopping performance.
  • Calibrated equipment:Professional stop time measurement tools for reliable, repeatable results.
  • Compliance‑oriented reports:Documentation designed to support audits, inspections, and internal safety programs.
  • Practical recommendations:Actionable guidance that balances safety, productivity, and cost.

Ready to verify your machine stopping performance?

Contact us today to schedule a Machine Stop Time Measurement Service:

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