Designed to meet stringent OSHA 1910.147, ANSI/ASSE Z244.1, CSA Z460, and ISO 14118 standards, these valves represent the gold standard for pneumatic energy isolation in industrial manufacturing environments. The combination of the proven L-O-X® (Lockout and Exhaust) valve technology with the patented EEZ-ON® soft-start mechanism delivers unparalleled safety, efficiency, and equipment protection.

Key Features and Technical Advantages

Dual-Function Design Eliminates Multiple Components

The ROSS L-O-X® valve with EEZ-ON® operation integrates two separate safety functions that traditionally required multiple components. By combining shutdown certainty with gradual pressurization control in a single valve body, this design:

• Reduces installation complexity and overall system footprint
• Eliminates potential leak points between separate components
• Lowers maintenance requirements through simplified valve train architecture
• Decreases total cost of ownership by reducing component count

This modular integration provides manufacturers with a streamlined pneumatic safety solution that meets both energy isolation requirements for LOTO procedures and controlled startup demands for equipment protection.

Unique Visual Identification for Enhanced Safety

ROSS energy isolation valves feature distinctive color-coded design elements that provide instant visual confirmation of valve status:

• Yellow valve body - Immediately identifies the valve as an energy isolation device from a distance, reducing the risk of operators missing lockout points during safety procedures
• Blue handle - Indicates soft-start functionality and distinguishes EEZ-ON® equipped valves from standard L-O-X® valves (which feature red handles)
• Handle position indicator - Provides clear visual indication of ON/OFF status, with the handle position directly corresponding to flow capability

This intuitive color coding system complies with ANSI safety standards for equipment identification and helps reduce human error during lockout/tagout procedures—a leading cause of industrial accidents.

Soft-Start EEZ-ON® Technology Prevents Equipment Damage

The patented EEZ-ON® soft-start mechanism addresses a critical safety and maintenance challenge: the rapid re-introduction of compressed air after energy isolation can cause sudden, violent equipment movement and unnecessary machine wear. The adjustable restriction within the EEZ-ON® valve:

• Controls downstream pressure buildup rate through an adjustable needle valve, allowing operators to customize ramp-up time based on specific application requirements
• Allows cylinders and actuators to move slowly into their normal working positions before full line pressure is applied, preventing shock loads on mechanical components
• Reduces mechanical stress on pneumatic cylinders, seals, and machine components, extending equipment service life
• Minimizes product damage risk in applications handling delicate materials during startup sequences

The gradual pressurization time is fully adjustable, typically ranging from 2 to 30 seconds depending on system volume and port size, providing flexibility for diverse manufacturing applications.

Full-Size Exhaust Ports for Rapid Energy Dissipation

Compliance with OSHA 1910.147 and ANSI/PMMI B155.1 standards requires energy isolation valves to provide rapid, complete dissipation of downstream pneumatic energy. ROSS L-O-X® valves with EEZ-ON® feature:

• Exhaust port capacity equal to or larger than supply ports - Ensures rapid pressure dump, typically exhausting system air in 1-3 seconds versus several minutes for vented ball valves
• Threaded exhaust ports - Accept standard silencers for noise reduction or allow connection of remote exhaust lines to route expelled air away from sensitive areas
• 3/2 valve configuration - Provides positive shut-off of supply air while simultaneously opening exhaust path, ensuring complete isolation

This rapid exhaust capability is crucial for both safety (allowing workers to verify zero-energy state quickly) and productivity (minimizing downtime during lockout procedures).

Lockable Only in the OFF Position

A fundamental requirement of OSHA lockout/tagout regulations is that energy isolation devices must be lockable only in the safe (de-energized) position. ROSS L-O-X® valves with EEZ-ON® incorporate:

• Integrated padlock hasp - Accommodates standard safety padlocks and multiple locks for group lockout procedures
• Mechanical interlock design - Physically prevents handle movement when locked, providing fail-safe protection against inadvertent energization
• Tamper-resistant construction - Ensures locks cannot be bypassed or circumvented without proper authorization
• Visible lockout status - Clear visual indication when valve is in locked-out condition

This design ensures compliance with OSHA 1910.147(c)(5)(i) requirements and provides reliable protection for personnel performing maintenance or servicing tasks.

Available Product Series and Configurations

15 Series Manual Lockout L-O-X® Valves with Soft-Start EEZ-ON®

The 15 Series represents ROSS Controls' classic manual energy isolation valve line with integrated soft-start functionality:

Technical Specifications:

• Port sizes: 1/4" through 3" (6mm through 80mm)
• Construction: Spool valve design for reliable operation
• Operating pressure range: 0 to 150 psig (0 to 10 bar)
• Ambient temperature: 40°F to 175°F (4°C to 80°C)
• Media temperature: 40°F to 175°F (4°C to 80°C)
• Valve body material: Cast aluminum (standard), stainless steel (optional)
• Seal material: Fluorocarbon (PTFE) slipper seals for long-term reliability
• Mounting options: Inline or surface mount configurations
• Thread types: NPT, G (BSPP), or metric threads available
• Safety ratings: Category 1, Performance Level c (PLc) per ISO 13849-1

Key Features:

• Purely manual operation—no electrical or pilot air required
• Integrated pressure sensing port for visual pop-up indicators or electrical pressure switches
• Flow capacities from 3.6 to 30+ Cv depending on port size
• Dirt-tolerant design with wear-compensating construction

The 15 Series is ideal for smaller machines, standalone equipment, and applications where electrical or pilot air supply is unavailable at the lockout location.

27 Series Lockout L-O-X® Valves with Soft-Start EEZ-ON®

The 27 Series provides piloted operation with manual lockout override, combining electrical or pneumatic actuation with manual energy isolation capability:

Technical Specifications:

• Port sizes: 3/8" through 2" (10mm through 50mm)
• Actuation options: Electrical (24 VDC, 110 VAC, 220 VAC) or pneumatic pilot
• Function: 3/2 single solenoid or single pilot
• Construction: Poppet valve design
• Operating pressure: 15 to 150 psig (1 to 10 bar)
• Ambient temperature: 40°F to 120°F (4°C to 50°C)
• Media temperature: 40°F to 175°F (4°C to 80°C)
• Valve body material: Cast aluminum
• Poppet/spool material: Acetal and stainless steel
• Seal material: Buna-N
• Safety ratings: Category 1, Performance Level c (PLc), SIL 2

Key Features:

• Remote electrical control capability when valve is not in lockout position
• Manual override handle (blue for EEZ-ON® models) provides instant manual control and lockout
• Handle position indicates instantaneous valve status
• Integrated sensor port for pressure verification
• Dirt-tolerant, wear-compensating design
• Full-size exhaust ports with silencer threads

The 27 Series is optimal for integrated safety systems, remote lockout applications, and machines requiring both automated control and manual emergency isolation.

Compliance with Global Safety Standards

OSHA 1910.147 - The Control of Hazardous Energy

ROSS L-O-X® valves with EEZ-ON® soft-start fully comply with OSHA's lockout/tagout standard (29 CFR 1910.147), which requires energy isolation devices to:

• Be capable of accepting a lockout device (padlock, lockout hasp, chain)
• Be lockable only in the "safe" or "off" position
• Provide visible means to determine valve position
• Isolate equipment from energy sources
• Allow verification that energy has been dissipated

Non-compliance with OSHA 1910.147 can result in citations, fines, and increased liability exposure. More importantly, proper lockout/tagout procedures prevent an estimated 120 fatalities and 50,000 injuries annually in the United States.

ANSI/ASSE Z244.1 - Control of Hazardous Energy

The ANSI/ASSE Z244.1 standard provides comprehensive guidance for lockout/tagout and alternative methods. ROSS valves support:

• Traditional LOTO - Complete energy isolation for maintenance and repair
• Single-Point Lockout (SPLO) - Alternative method for routine, repetitive tasks integral to production
• Alternative measures - Control-reliable systems for minor servicing exceptions

The soft-start functionality is particularly valuable in alternative lockout scenarios, where rapid pressure reintroduction after frequent lockouts could create hazardous conditions or accelerate equipment wear.

ANSI/PMMI B155.1 - Packaging Machinery Safety

Specific requirements for packaging and converting machinery demand that safety shut-off and exhaust valves be:

• Lockable only in the off position ✓
• Easy to operate ✓
• Equipped with exhaust port capacity equal to or greater than supply port ✓
• Equipped with visible pressure indicator ✓

ROSS L-O-X® valves with EEZ-ON® meet or exceed all B155.1 requirements, making them the preferred choice for packaging equipment manufacturers and end users.

ISO 14118 - Prevention of Unexpected Start-up

The international standard ISO 14118 establishes requirements for the prevention of unexpected start-up during maintenance. ROSS valves comply with:

• Isolation from all energy sources
• Dissipation of stored energy
• Verification of energy isolation
• Prevention of re-energization during maintenance

Global manufacturers benefit from ROSS's compliance with both North American and international standards, facilitating equipment export and multi-national facility standardization.

Industry Applications and Use Cases

Manufacturing and Assembly Operations

Pneumatic-powered manufacturing equipment requires frequent access for material loading, jam clearing, and adjustment:

• Automated assembly lines - Safe operator access for part changeovers and jam clearance
• Material handling systems - Energy isolation for conveyor maintenance and product flow adjustments
• Robotic work cells - Lockout capability for teaching, programming, and safety system testing
• Pick-and-place equipment - Protection during tooling changes and calibration procedures

The soft-start feature prevents sudden actuator movement when restarting equipment after brief stoppages, protecting both personnel and delicate components.

Packaging and Converting Equipment

The packaging industry faces unique challenges with frequent product changeovers and routine jam clearance:

• Case erectors and packers - Multiple daily access requirements for format changes
• Shrink wrap systems - Safe access to film feed mechanisms and sealing stations
• Labeling machines - Frequent operator intervention for label replenishment and adjustment
• Palletizing systems - Energy isolation for gripper maintenance and stack pattern changes

ROSS valves reduce lockout time by over 4 minutes per incident in typical packaging applications, translating to significant productivity improvements when machines experience 8-10 jams per shift.

Material Processing and Forming

Heavy industrial processes often involve high-force pneumatic actuators requiring controlled startup:

• Stamping presses - Clutch/brake control with soft-start for counterbalance systems
• Forming equipment - Gradual pressure application prevents mold damage and product defects
• Cutting and trimming machinery - Safe blade positioning and maintenance access
• Clamping systems - Controlled pressure buildup prevents workpiece displacement

The adjustable soft-start time allows process engineers to optimize pressure ramp rates for specific materials and tooling requirements.

Steel, Aluminum, and Metal Fabrication

The metals industry utilizes extensive pneumatic systems for material handling, processing, and finishing:

• Coil handling equipment - Energy isolation for maintenance of spreaders, peelers, and uncoilers
• Cutting lines - Lockout capability for blade changes and scrap removal
• Finishing systems - Safe access to grinding, polishing, and coating equipment
• Transfer systems - Protection during jam clearance and equipment alignment

Large-scale metal processing facilities benefit from reduced lockout times, as a 4-minute savings per lockout event can recover a full production shift per week across multiple machines.

Automotive Manufacturing

Automotive assembly plants demand the highest safety standards with maximum uptime efficiency:

• Body welding stations - Frequent access for weld tip replacement and adjustment
• Paint booth conveyors - Energy isolation for hanger maintenance and booth cleaning
• Final assembly lines - Safe operator zones for component installation and verification
• Test stands - Lockout capability for diagnostic equipment setup and calibration

ROSS's global presence and compliance with international standards make these valves ideal for automotive manufacturers with facilities spanning multiple countries.

Installation and Maintenance Considerations

Proper Installation Location

Energy isolation valves must be strategically positioned to provide effective protection while maintaining accessibility:

• Before or after the filter-regulator-lubricator (FRL) unit depending on whether upstream shutoff devices exist
• Outside the machine guard to allow lockout without entering the hazardous area
• At typical operator access points to minimize travel time during lockout procedures
• Within easy reach of personnel performing lockout, typically 6 feet or lower mounting height

The 15 Series inline mounting allows direct installation in pneumatic drop lines, while surface mounting options provide flexibility for retrofit applications.

EEZ-ON® Adjustment Procedures

The soft-start time delay is adjustable to match specific application requirements:

1. Initial setting: Start with the restriction fully open (counterclockwise)
2. Observe startup behavior: Monitor equipment movement during pressurization
3. Adjust restriction: Gradually close (clockwise) until desired ramp rate is achieved
4. Verify safe operation: Ensure equipment moves slowly and controllably to working position
5. Lock adjustment: Secure adjustment screw to prevent tampering (if equipped)

Typical adjustment range allows soft-start times from 2 seconds (minimal restriction) to 30+ seconds (maximum restriction) depending on downstream volume.

Pressure Verification Options

ANSI and OSHA standards require verification that energy has been dissipated before personnel enter hazardous areas. ROSS valves offer:

• Visual pop-up indicators - Mechanical indicator extends when downstream pressure drops below 5 psig, providing clear visual confirmation
• Electrical pressure switches - Low-pressure switches signal control systems or illuminate indicator lights when safe pressure is achieved
• Direct pressure gauge mounting - Integrated sensing port accepts standard 1/8" NPT pressure gauges for precise pressure monitoring

Selection depends on application requirements, operator interface preferences, and integration with existing control systems.

Maintenance and Service Life

ROSS valves are engineered for extended service life in demanding industrial environments:

• Fluorocarbon (PTFE) seals - Ensure easy shifting even after extended periods of inactivity (months or years)
• Stainless steel spool/poppet components - Resist corrosion and wear, particularly critical in humid or chemically aggressive environments
• Wear-compensating design - Maintains performance characteristics throughout service life
• Serviceable construction - Seal kits available for field rebuild, extending valve life and reducing total cost of ownership

Recommended maintenance intervals typically range from 1-3 years depending on cycle frequency and operating conditions, with seal inspection and replacement as needed.

Benefits Beyond Safety Compliance

Productivity and Uptime Improvements

Safety standards don't just protect workers—they improve bottom-line performance:

• Reduced lockout time - Single-point energy isolation saves 4+ minutes per lockout event versus multiple lockout locations
• Fewer bypassed lockouts - Simplified procedures increase compliance, reducing unsafe shortcuts
• Equipment protection - Soft-start prevents mechanical shock, reducing unplanned maintenance
• Faster jam clearance - In packaging applications averaging 8 jams per shift, time savings equal 32 minutes of additional production per shift

Real-world case study: A consumer products manufacturer using ROSS DM2 valves (control-reliable version) recovered a full 8-hour production shift over 5 days through reduced lockout times.

Cost Savings and ROI

The investment in proper energy isolation valves delivers measurable financial returns:

• Avoided accident costs - OSHA's Safety Pays program demonstrates that accidents cost far more than prevention
• Reduced workers' compensation premiums - Better safety records lead to lower insurance costs
• Extended equipment life - Soft-start reduces wear on cylinders, seals, and mechanical components
• Lower maintenance costs - Fewer shock-load failures mean less emergency repair expense

Payback periods for upgrading to ROSS L-O-X® valves with EEZ-ON® typically range from 3-12 months based on lockout frequency and production value.

Standardization Across Facilities

Multi-plant manufacturers benefit from valve standardization:

• Global compliance - Products meet North American, European, and international standards
• Simplified training - Consistent equipment across facilities reduces training complexity
• Maintenance efficiency - Standard spare parts inventory serves multiple locations
• Best practice sharing - Standardized procedures transfer easily between plants

ROSS's global presence with subsidiaries and distribution in over 50 countries supports international standardization initiatives.

Catalog Contents and Technical Information

What's Included in the Downloadable Catalog

The Energy Isolation Manual Lockout Valves with Soft-Start catalog provides comprehensive technical documentation:

Product Specifications:

• Complete dimensional drawings with mounting hole patterns and clearance requirements
• Flow capacity data (Cv values) for all port sizes and flow directions (1-2, 2-3)
• Electrical specifications for 27 Series models (voltage, wattage, duty cycle)
• Pressure range specifications and operating parameters
• Temperature ratings for ambient and media
• Material specifications for body, internal components, and seals

Selection Guidance:

• Port size selection criteria based on flow requirements
• Series selection decision matrix (15 vs. 27 Series)
• Actuation type comparison (manual, electrical, pneumatic)
• Thread type options and regional preferences
• Mounting style selection guidance

Installation Instructions:

• Recommended installation orientation and location
• Pipe thread sealant recommendations and torque specifications
• Electrical wiring diagrams for 27 Series solenoid models
• Pilot air supply requirements for pneumatically actuated versions
• EEZ-ON® adjustment procedures and soft-start time optimization

Application Examples:

• Circuit diagrams showing typical installations
• Integration with control-reliable safety systems
• Single-point lockout system configurations
• Alternative lockout method implementations
• Pressure verification system designs

Compliance Documentation:

• Standards compliance matrix (OSHA, ANSI, ISO, CSA)
• Safety rating information (Category, Performance Level, SIL)
• Third-party certification details
• Declaration of conformity information

Maintenance Information:

• Recommended inspection intervals
• Seal replacement procedures
• Troubleshooting guide for common issues
• Service kit part numbers
• Warranty information

Part Number Nomenclature System

ROSS uses a systematic part numbering system that encodes key product specifications:

Example: Y1523B7112

• Y = Standard product designation
• 15 = 15 Series (manual lockout)
• 23 = Function code (3/2 with soft-start)
• B = Construction variant
• 7 = Port size code (corresponds to actual port dimension)
• 112 = Thread type and configuration code

Understanding this nomenclature allows engineers to quickly identify equivalent products, cross-reference between thread types, and specify replacement components accurately.

Related Products and System Components

The catalog references complementary ROSS safety products for complete system solutions:

• Standard L-O-X® valves (without soft-start) - For applications not requiring gradual pressurization
• DM2 Series control-reliable valves - Category 3/4 monitored redundant valves for automated safety systems
• Soft-Start EEZ-ON® valves (without manual lockout) - Electrically actuated soft-start for non-LOTO applications
• Pop-up indicators and pressure switches - Pressure verification accessories
• Remote lockout systems - Single-point lockout components for alternative LOTO methods

Cross-references help system designers create integrated safety solutions that meet complete application requirements.

Why Choose ROSS Controls for Energy Isolation

Over 100 Years of Valve Manufacturing Excellence

Since 1921, ROSS Controls has specialized in pneumatic valve design and manufacturing:

• Family-owned heritage - Three founding families maintain ownership, ensuring long-term commitment to quality
• Specialized focus - Dedicated exclusively to fluid power control, not a diversified conglomerate
• Engineering innovation - Continuous product development led by experienced fluid power engineers
• Manufacturing expertise - Vertical integration provides control over quality and delivery

This focused expertise results in products specifically engineered for industrial safety applications rather than adapted from general-purpose components.

Industry-Leading Safety Valve Portfolio

ROSS pioneered many safety valve innovations now considered industry standards:

• Over 60 years of producing redundant, monitored safety valves
• 47+ years of L-O-X® energy isolation valve production (as of catalog publication)
• Patented EEZ-ON® technology for controlled soft-start operation
• Third-party certified products meeting the most stringent global safety standards

This deep experience translates to proven field reliability and comprehensive application knowledge.

Global Support Network

International manufacturing operations require global support capabilities:

• Worldwide subsidiaries in North America, Europe, and Asia
• Distributor network covering over 50 countries
• Technical support available in multiple languages and time zones
• Application engineering assistance for system design and product selection
• Training programs including Total Machine Safety courses and risk assessment workshops

This global presence enables standardization across multinational facilities while providing local support for installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Commitment to Standards Development

ROSS actively participates in safety standards development:

• Committee membership in ANSI, ISO, and CSA standards bodies
• Industry advocacy for practical, implementable safety requirements
• Educational initiatives including white papers, technical articles, and training materials
• Thought leadership in fluid power safety engineering

This involvement ensures ROSS products anticipate future requirements and provide solutions that exceed current standards.

Download Your Complete Catalog Today

Immediate Access to Critical Technical Information

This comprehensive catalog provides everything needed for proper product selection, specification, installation, and maintenance of ROSS Energy Isolation Manual Lockout Valves with Soft-Start EEZ-ON®. Engineers, safety managers, maintenance technicians, and purchasing professionals will find:

• Detailed specifications for informed purchasing decisions
• Selection tools to identify the optimal valve configuration
• Installation guidance for proper implementation
• Compliance documentation for safety audits and regulatory inspections
• Maintenance procedures for long-term reliability

Supporting Your Safety and Productivity Goals

Whether you're upgrading existing equipment to meet current standards, designing new machinery for optimal safety and efficiency, or standardizing safety components across multiple facilities, this catalog serves as your comprehensive reference guide. The combination of ROSS's proven L-O-X® energy isolation technology with patented EEZ-ON® soft-start capability provides the most advanced solution available for pneumatic lockout/tagout applications requiring controlled startup.

Download the catalog now to access complete technical specifications, dimensional drawings, compliance documentation, and application guidance for implementing world-class pneumatic safety systems that protect personnel, enhance productivity, and comply with all applicable safety regulations.

Additional Technical Resources

For comprehensive pneumatic safety system design guidance, ROSS Controls offers these complementary resources:

• Fluid Power Safety for Machine Guarding Reference Book - Expanded technical guide covering safety standards, risk assessment, and circuit design
• Risk Locator for Machinery with Pneumatic Power CD-ROM - Interactive tool for identifying pneumatic hazards
• Total Machine Safety Training Course - Comprehensive education program covering OSHA, ANSI, and ISO requirements
• Application-specific white papers - Technical papers addressing industry-specific safety challenges
• Product selection software - Online tools at rosscontrols.com for identifying optimal valve configurations

Visit www.rosscontrols.com or contact your local ROSS distributor for access to these resources and expert application assistance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What's the difference between L-O-X® and EEZ-ON® terminology?
A: L-O-X® (Lockout and Exhaust) refers to the manual energy isolation valve function that blocks supply and exhausts downstream pressure for lockout/tagout compliance. EEZ-ON® (soft-start) refers to the gradual pressurization feature that prevents sudden equipment movement during startup. Valves with both designations combine energy isolation with controlled restart capability.

Q: Can these valves be used for emergency stop applications?
A: No. Per specifications and regulations, energy isolation devices are not classified as emergency stop devices. Emergency stops require different response time characteristics and redundancy provisions per ISO 13850. ROSS DM2 Series control-reliable valves are appropriate for emergency stop circuits.

Q: How do I determine the correct port size?
A: Port size selection depends on required flow capacity (measured in Cv or Nl/min), available line pressure, and acceptable pressure drop. The catalog includes flow capacity data for all port sizes. As a general guideline, match or slightly exceed the existing line size for drop line isolation applications.

Q: What's the typical soft-start adjustment range?
A: Soft-start time typically ranges from 2 to 30+ seconds depending on downstream volume, port size, and restriction setting. Smaller systems may reach full pressure in 2-5 seconds while larger systems with extensive pneumatic circuits may require 15-30 seconds for controlled startup.

Q: Are replacement seals and service kits available?
A: Yes. ROSS offers complete seal kits and service parts for field rebuild. Kits are specified by valve series and port size. The fluorocarbon seals provide extended service life, with typical intervals of 1-3 years depending on usage frequency and operating conditions.

Contact ROSS Controls:

• Phone: (800) 438-7677 (GET-ROSS)
• Website: www.rosscontrols.com
• Global Support: Contact information for regional offices available at rosscontrols.com

About ROSS Controls: Since 1921, ROSS Controls has been manufacturing the highest quality pneumatic valves and safety systems for industrial fluid power applications. As a family-owned company with global reach, ROSS provides innovative products, expert application support, and comprehensive safety training to help manufacturers protect personnel, comply with regulations, and optimize productivity.