ELECTRONIC SAFETY FUNCTION LOCK-UNLOCK SYSTEM

An electronic safety function lock-unlock system includes a human-machine interface (HMI) device. The HMI device includes a touchscreen display for touch input and one or more cameras for capturing gesture input data and operator facial image data. The HMI device is operatively connected to a power switch unit or similar device for selectively interrupting conduction of electrical power to industrial equipment for safety. An operator initiates a lock operation with respect to the equipment using first touchscreen or first gesture input to perform a lock operation to disconnect the industrial equipment from electrical power. An operator initiates an unlock operation or condition (to remove a lock condition) with respect to the equipment using second touchscreen input or second gesture input. The HMI optionally require vocal confirmation from an operator of a requested lock or unlock operation. The HMI can compare a captured image of the operator's face to a database of authorized facial images to determine if the operator is authorized to initiate a lock operation and initiates the lock operation only if the operator is authorized. The power switch unit is set to conduct electrical power to the industrial equipment only if the number of active lock conditions equals zero.