Safety and Selection WARNING: Before selecting or using any foot switch, read the foot switch safety warning. Only the user can be aware of all conditions and factors present during the installation, operation, and maintenance of a foot switch and the surrounding work area. Therefore, only the user can determine which foot switch(es) and which point-of-operation safeguards are required for a particular application or work station. Review OSHA and other regulations before selecting or installing any foot switch. This foot switch selection guide provides generalized information, and each application will require specific electrical and safety features. Safety options can include guards to protect against accidental activation, anti-trip safety latches (G-Series only), enclosures ratings, and front access gates.

There are two main types of pedal action: momentary and maintained.

1) Momentary Action: Press and hold to turn on, release to turn off (like a car horn). The user must continue to hold the pedal down to keep it on. As soon as the user lifts his or her foot, the unit will turn off. This is the most common type of foot switch pedal action.

2) Maintained Action: Press pedal once to turn on, press again to turn off (like a light switch). The foot switch will stay on and the user can remove his or her foot from the pedal until the user presses the pedal again to turn it off. Examples include  G-Series -MA models (press down on pedal to turn it on, then press forward a latch inside the hood to return the pedal back to the off position),  S420-Series models (press opposite ends of the pedal to toggle it on and off), and F300-Series models (has push on / push off maintained action, like a ball-point pen).

Additionally, the Anti-Trip Safety Latch is available on G-Series models. For this action, you have to press forward a latch inside the guard before you can press down on the pedal.

Choosing the proper current and voltage rating for a foot switch application will depend on the electrical circuit of the equipment that the foot switch is attached to. The amount of electrical current that will flow through the circuit will determine the amperage rating required for the foot switch. The voltage and horsepower ratings (if applicable) also must be selected appropriately for the application. Consult a certified electrician with any questions to determine the amperage, voltage, grounding, and power requirements for your application. Follow all local and national electrical safety regulations. This foot switch selection guide can provide a general outline, but each application may have specific electrical and mechanical requirements.

Typically, foot switches contain SPDT contacts that are wired “normally open.” That is, the switch is open, or “off,” when not in use, and not activated until pressed. However, other circuit variations are available, and it will depend on the requirements for your application. See our glossary for more description about foot switch terms and concepts: foot switch glossary page.

Many SSC Controls foot switches come with cables already attached. Two of the most common cable examples are listed below: cables with a piggyback plug, and cables with leads. Each of these cable configurations can be included on the S-Series, B-Series, and F-Series foot switch product lines. The circuits below are shown in the “off” or at-rest position, with the pedal fully up. Use this foot switch selection guide to help sort through wiring and circuit options.