Electric Deadman Switch (with ball and chain) Electric Remote Control Deadman Switch, comes in either 2 or 3 wire configuration. This deadman switch must be used with the ball & chain. The ball & chain is designed as an integral part of the safety features of the deadman switch.  If the operator drops the blast hose accidentally, the ball will automatically disengage shutting the system down. The 1” of slack will prevent the copper strands in the wire from breaking were the cord enters the switch due to tension when the blast hose is bent or when activated.