5 reasons why IEC 61508 is critical in Industry 4.0
With the rapid evolution of smart technologies and automation, ensuring the safety and reliability of complex systems becomes paramount. IEC 61508, the global standard for functional safety, is critical in the era of Industry 4.0. In this article, we explore five key reasons why IEC 61508 plays a vital role, from ensuring system reliability to protecting both human and machine interactions in today’s industrial landscape.
What is IEC 61508?
IEC 61508, titled “Functional Safety of Electrical/Electronic/Programmable Electronic Safety-related Systems,” is an international standard published by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). It provides a framework for ensuring the functional safety of systems that rely on electrical, electronic, and programmable electronic technologies.
IEC 61508 provides a structured approach to identifying hazards, assessing risks, and implementing safeguards for electrical, electronic, and programmable electronic systems. It emphasises the importance of considering the entire lifecycle of safety-related systems, from initial concept through decommissioning.
IEC 61508 is built on several key principles that are crucial for understanding its application in Industry 4.0:
- Functional Safety: This principle focuses on the part of overall safety that depends on a system or equipment operating correctly in response to its inputs.
- Safety Lifecycle: IEC 61508 emphasises a holistic approach to safety, covering all stages from concept to decommissioning.
- Risk-Based Approach: The standard promotes assessing and managing risks based on their likelihood and potential consequences.
- As Low As Reasonably Practicable (ALARP): This principle guides the implementation of safety measures to reduce risk to a level that is as low as reasonably practicable.
Why is IEC 61508 a key standard in the Industry 4.0 era?
As we transition into an era of increased automation and interconnectivity, the application of IEC 61508 becomes increasingly significant. The standard’s importance is multifaceted, addressing several critical aspects of Industry 4.0 implementation:
1. Managing Complexity
First and foremost, IEC 61508 provides a structured approach to managing the complexity inherent in Industry 4.0 environments. These modern industrial settings involve intricate networks of sensors, actuators, and control systems. The standard ensures that safety is not compromised as these systems become more sophisticated, offering guidelines to navigate the complexities of interconnected industrial ecosystems.
2. Risk Mitigation
Furthermore, IEC 61508 plays a crucial role in risk mitigation. The increased automation in Industry 4.0 brings with it a higher potential for systemic failures. By helping to identify and mitigate risks throughout the entire system lifecycle – from conception to decommissioning – IEC 61508 provides a comprehensive safety framework for modern industrial operations.
3. Ensuring Interoperability
Interoperability is another key area where IEC 61508 proves invaluable. In the context of Industry 4.0, diverse systems must interact seamlessly. The standard offers a common framework for ensuring safety across different components and subsystems, thereby facilitating safer integration of various technologies and processes.
4. Enhancing Reliability in Autonomous Systems
As factories become more autonomous, the reliability of software becomes increasingly critical. IEC 61508 addresses this need by providing guidelines for developing dependable software for safety-critical applications. This aspect of the standard is particularly important as it directly contributes to the overall reliability and safety of autonomous systems in industrial settings.
5. Demonstrating Compliance
Lastly, adherence to IEC 61508 serves as a key differentiator in the market. By demonstrating compliance with this standard, companies can showcase their commitment to safety and quality to both stakeholders and regulatory bodies. This not only enhances a company’s reputation but also can provide a competitive edge in industries where safety and reliability are paramount.
Get our Guide to IEC 61508 to navigate the standard with confidence
While this article has provided an overview of the standard’s importance and key aspects, there is much more to explore. To dive deeper into IEC 61508 and its application in Industry 4.0, download our comprehensive ebook.
About the author
Malgorzata Kruszynska
Business Researcher
