What is IEC 62061 Ed. 2:2018 -

Introduction

The IEC 62061 Ed. 2:2018 standard is a crucial document that plays a significant role in ensuring the safety of machinery in various industries. This article aims to provide readers with a simplified explanation of this technical standard, highlighting its importance and key features.

Understanding the IEC 62061 Ed. 2:2018 Standard

The IEC 62061 Ed. 2:2018 is an international standard developed by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) that focuses on functional safety of electrical, electronic, and programmable electronic control systems used in machinery applications. The objective of this standard is to minimize risks associated with these control systems by specifying requirements for their design, integration, and validation.

To achieve functional safety, the standard includes guidelines for manufacturers and system integrators to develop safety-related control systems. It establishes processes and principles to be followed throughout a machine's lifecycle, from its concept development and design to its operation, maintenance, and decommissioning.

Key Features of IEC 62061 Ed. 2:2018

The IEC 62061 Ed. 2:2018 standard incorporates several important features to ensure effective functional safety. Some of the key features include:

1. Risk assessment: Prioritizing potential hazards and identifying corresponding risk levels is vital in determining required safety functions.

2. Safety requirement specification: Clearly defining safety functions and performance criteria that control systems must meet.

3. System design: Implementing measures like redundancy, fault tolerance, and self-testing mechanisms to enhance reliability and resilience.

4. Validation and verification: Establishing processes to validate and verify safety-related control system designs and implementations.

5. Documentation: Maintaining detailed documentation throughout the lifecycle of the machinery, including risk assessments, safety requirements, and validation results.

Conclusion

The IEC 62061 Ed. 2:2018 standard is an essential framework that ensures the functional safety of machinery control systems. By adhering to the guidelines provided in this standard, manufacturers and system integrators can significantly reduce risks associated with these systems, fostering a safer working environment.

Functional safety is of utmost importance when it comes to machinery applications, especially in industries where the failure of a control system could result in severe consequences. The international adoption of the IEC 62061 Ed. 2:2018 standard highlights its significance and contribution in promoting safety in various sectors, making it a crucial document for engineers, designers, and experts involved in machinery development and operation.

Remember, compliance with standards like the IEC 62061 Ed. 2:2018 not only helps protect lives and assets but also enhances the reputation and trustworthiness of organizations involved in the manufacturing and operation of machinery.