What does IEC 61508 stand for?

IEC 61508, which stands for International Electrotechnical Commission Standard 61508, is a globally recognized technical standard for functional safety of electrical, electronic, and programmable electronic safety-related systems. This standard provides guidance on how to identify, manage, and reduce risks in these systems, ensuring their safety and reliability.

The Scope of IEC 61508

The scope of IEC 61508 covers various sectors, including process industries, machinery, railways, automotive, aerospace, and more. It applies to safety-related systems that use electrical, electronic, or programmable electronic technologies, irrespective of their application or complexity. The standard also addresses the entire lifecycle of these systems, from concept and design to operation, maintenance, and decommissioning.

Main Concepts and Requirements

IEC 61508 introduces several key concepts and requirements aimed at achieving functional safety. One of the central elements is the concept of Safety Integrity Level (SIL), which quantifies the reliability required for a safety function to effectively perform its intended task. The standard defines four SIL levels, with SIL 4 representing the highest level of integrity. Furthermore, IEC 61508 emphasizes the importance of systematic processes, such as hazard and risk analysis, safety management, and verification and validation activities.

Assessment and Certification

To demonstrate compliance with IEC 61508, organizations can undergo assessment and certification processes. These processes are typically carried out by independent third-party organizations specializing in functional safety. Certification provides assurance that safety-related systems meet the standard's rigorous requirements and appropriate risk reduction measures have been implemented. Organizations that achieve certification can enhance their reputation, gain a competitive advantage, and establish trust with their customers.