Chapter 6. Election Day, Before the Polls Open

6.D. Examine the Voting Machines

6.D.2. Observe the Examination of the Voting Machine by the Election Judges

The poll watcher shall observe the Election Judges compare and record the number on the metal seal securing the voting machine with the number recorded on the envelope containing the keys.

If the number on the seal or the number on the protective counter does not match the number listed on the key security envelope, the polls shall not be opened. The Election Judges shall contact the Election Authority to examine, test, reset, or replace the machine. The poll watcher shall contact their poll watcher team and report the number of the voting machine.

The poll watcher shall also observe the Election Judges:

  1. Compare the ballot labels to the sample ballot(s).
  2. Confirm that all counters are set to zero (0).
  3. Read and record the protective counter number.

If the machine is found to be in working order:

  • Members of the public present in the Polling Place as observers shall be asked to leave until the polls open.
  • The polls may open on time.

If the machine is not found to be in working order:

  • The Election Judges shall contact the Election Authority to replace the voting machine.
  • The poll watcher shall contact their poll watcher team and report the number of the voting machine to be replaced.
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