What is IEC 61508 and EN 13849

The field of industrial safety relies on standards to ensure that systems and equipment are designed, implemented, and operated in a manner that minimizes risks and hazards. Two important standards in this field are IEC 61508 and EN 13849. In this article, we will explore what these standards are and why they are essential for ensuring safe operations in various industries.

Understanding IEC 61508

IEC 61508, also known as the "Functional Safety of Electrical/Electronic/Programmable Electronic Safety-related Systems," is an international standard that sets out the framework for designing and evaluating functional safety in industrial systems. It provides guidance on the development of safety-related electrical, electronic, and programmable electronic systems and covers various aspects such as design, maintenance, testing, and documentation. The primary goal of IEC 61508 is to reduce the risk of hazardous failures within these systems and prevent potential harm to people, property, or the environment.

Exploring EN 13849

EN 13849 is a harmonized European standard that focuses on the safety of control systems in machinery. It specifically deals with the safety of electrical, electronic, and programmable electronic control systems used in machinery applications. This standard provides guidelines for the design, validation, verification, and implementation of safety-related control functions. By complying with EN 13849, manufacturers ensure that their machinery meets specified safety requirements, thereby minimizing the risk of accidents and injuries to operators and bystanders.

Benefits and Importance

Both IEC 61508 and EN 13849 play crucial roles in ensuring the safety of systems and equipment in various industries. By following these standards, organizations can:

1. Reduce risks and hazards: These standards provide a systematic approach to identifying and managing potential risks associated with electrical, electronic, and programmable electronic systems. By implementing the guidelines outlined in IEC 61508 and EN 13849, manufacturers can reduce the likelihood of accidents, injuries, and damage to property.

2. Enhance reliability and performance: Compliance with these standards ensures that safety-related systems meet specific requirements for reliability, availability, maintainability, and performance. By following standardized procedures and best practices, organizations can design and implement robust safety measures that minimize downtime and improve overall system performance.

3. Meet legal and regulatory requirements: Adhering to established safety standards is essential for compliance with industry regulations and legal obligations. IEC 61508 and EN 13849 are recognized and accepted as benchmarks for demonstrating compliance and due diligence in ensuring system safety and integrity.

In conclusion, IEC 61508 and EN 13849 are vital standards that guide the design, implementation, and operation of safe industrial systems. By focusing on functional safety and control systems, these standards help organizations mitigate risks, enhance performance, and meet legal obligations across various industries.