What is BS EN ISO 13837-2:2010?

BS EN ISO 13837-2:2010 is a technical standard that provides guidelines for the design and manufacture of machinery safety systems. It outlines the requirements and recommendations for the safe operation of machinery, focusing specifically on safety-related parts of control systems. This standard, developed by the European Committee for Standardization (CEN) and the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), is widely recognized and used as a reference in various industries.

Understanding the Scope

The scope of BS EN ISO 13837-2:2010 encompasses the safety requirements for machinery control systems. It applies to all types of machinery where control systems are used to ensure safe operation. The standard covers the design principles, performance levels, and verification methods for safety-related parts of control systems. It also addresses the integration of these parts into the overall machinery system, taking into account factors such as reliability, fault tolerance, and diagnostics.

Key Requirements and Recommendations

BS EN ISO 13837-2:2010 lays out key requirements and recommendations for machinery control systems. One of the crucial aspects is risk assessment, which involves identifying potential hazards and determining the necessary safety functions to mitigate those risks. Safety functions should be designed to achieve a specified level of performance, measured in terms of Performance Level (PL). The standard provides tables and formulas to determine the required PL based on the severity of potential injury and the frequency and duration of exposure to the hazard.

In addition to risk assessment and performance levels, the standard also emphasizes the importance of diagnostic capabilities. Control systems should incorporate diagnostics to continuously monitor the performance of safety functions and detect any failures or malfunctions. These diagnostics play a vital role in ensuring that the machinery remains in a safe state and can quickly react to any potential hazards. Regular maintenance and testing are also recommended to ensure the continued effectiveness of safety-related parts of control systems.

Implementation Challenges and Benefits

Implementing BS EN ISO 13837-2:2010 requires a thorough understanding of machinery safety principles and control system design. Compliance with this standard can be challenging, especially for complex machinery with multiple safety functions. It often involves collaboration between engineers, designers, and end-users to ensure that all relevant factors and requirements are considered during the design and manufacturing process.

However, adhering to BS EN ISO 13837-2:2010 brings numerous benefits. By following the standard's guidelines, manufacturers can enhance the safety of their machinery, reduce the risk of accidents and injuries, and ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements. Implementing robust safety-related parts of control systems not only protects workers but also safeguards the reputation and financial well-being of manufacturers by mitigating potential legal liabilities and production downtime caused by accidents.

In conclusion, BS EN ISO 13837-2:2010 is an essential technical standard for machinery safety control systems. It sets out guidelines and requirements to help manufacturers develop reliable and effective safety-related parts of control systems. Compliance with this standard ensures that machinery operates in a safe and controlled manner, ultimately protecting both workers and the interests of manufacturers.