This is a summary from the presentation of the same title by Shuang Zhao, Safety Manager at Inmotion, at the Future of Electrification 2024 conference. Watch the full session here: Watch the full session here:
Shuang Zhao’s insightful presentation at the Future of Electrification 2024 Conference covered the role of ISO 13849 in developing subsystems. ISO 13849 is the international standard for the design and integration of safety-related control system components including software. Understanding ISO 13849 ensures that subsystems perform their intended functions while prioritizing safety and reducing risks.
During his presentation, Zhao covered the core objectives of ISO 13849, including identifying hazards, evaluating the severity and likelihood of risks, and mitigating these risks by implementing safety concepts, safety functions, or safety mechanisms. Additionally, ISO 13849 provides a framework for categorizing performance levels, allowing organizations to measure the safety of their subsystems.
Zhao highlighted the potential challenges associated with functional safety standards, including ISO 13849. Standards can include numerous requirements, some of which can be complex and difficult to understand, creating obstacles for OEMs and subsystem providers. Both may also struggle to understand the scope of ISO 13849. He emphasized that although OEMs and subsystem providers are subject to the standard, their responsibilities differ.
OEMs are primarily responsible for identifying hazards and developing system-level solutions. Subsystem providers may find it challenging to directly contribute to hazard identification, however, they can play a vital role by implementing safety functions and other measures outlined in the standard. Although subsystem suppliers may not play a role in identifying risks, involving them from the outset of a project can still be highly beneficial. Their expertise in applications may allow them to provide valuable input to OEMs, helping to mitigate the identified risks and potentially lower project costs. Zhao underscored the importance of effective communication between the two parties. He suggested that the OEM should ensure that the subsystem supplier has all the necessary information to interpret the safety concept and contribute effectively to the overall safety solution.
Zhao emphasized the value of a structured approach when working with functional safety standards, including ISO 13849. Meeting safety standards requires significant effort from both the OEM and the subsupplier. Evidence must be provided to demonstrate the safety of the final project, which includes hardware, software, and extensive documentation. Aligning the OEM and subsupplier can be challenging, especially for those new to functional safety. A systemic approach ensures that no critical steps are missed.
Here are the key steps as per Zhao’s presentation:
1) Identify applicable requirements: The OEM must identify all the specific requirements from the standard that apply to their company.Zhao noted that creating guidelines and summarizing methodologies can help streamline the process and ensure consistency. Additionally, functional safety is an ongoing process, organizations should continuously review and improve their processes to maintain compliance and enhance safety.
Zhao discussed the important role of ISO 13849 in subsystem development. Adherence to ISO 13849 not only provides a clear set of guidelines for the design and integration of safety-related parts of control systems but also enhances the credibility and marketability of products by facilitating the necessary certifications. Additionally, ISO 13849 provides a common language and understanding for subsystem developers and OEMs. This can facilitate collaboration and ensure that both parties work towards the same safety goals.
Shuang Zhao's presentation offered a comprehensive look at the importance of ISO 13849 in subsystem development, including the critical role of this standard in ensuring the safety of machinery and operators. Zhao emphasized the importance of taking a systemic approach and effective collaboration between OEMs and subsystem suppliers. By following the ISO 13849 guidelines, organizations can reduce risks, improve safety, and enhance the performance of their machinery. It's a must-learn for any professional involved in the development or operation of subsystems for machinery. By implementing ISO 13849 and following the guidelines covered in the presentation, organizations can create safer and more reliable machinery, ultimately benefiting both businesses and end-users.