What is ISO 55066:2014?

ISO 55066:2014 is an international standard that provides guidelines and requirements for the design and manufacture of industrial machinery in relation to functional safety. It focuses on the use of safety-related control systems, also known as SRCS, to ensure the safety of machinery.

Functional Safety and Industrial Machinery

In the context of ISO 55066:2014, functional safety refers to the ability of a system or equipment to perform its intended function reliably without causing unacceptable risk of harm. When it comes to industrial machinery, functional safety is crucial to protect both workers and the environment from potential hazards and accidents.

The standard's main objective is to reduce the risk related to the use of machinery by providing guidance on how to identify and mitigate potential hazards through effective control systems. These control systems are designed to detect and respond to unsafe conditions in order to prevent or minimize any resulting harm.

The Requirements of ISO 55066:2014

ISO 55066:2014 outlines several key requirements that manufacturers need to consider when designing and implementing safety-related control systems:

Firstly, it emphasizes the importance of conducting a thorough risk assessment during the design phase. This assessment should identify potential hazards and estimate their level of risk. Based on this assessment, appropriate measures can be taken to reduce the risks to an acceptable level.

Secondly, the standard sets out requirements for the performance of safety-related control systems, including reliability, availability, and capability. It addresses aspects such as the design, verification, and validation of these systems, ensuring they meet the specified safety requirements.

Furthermore, ISO 55066:2014 emphasizes the need for clear and comprehensive documentation throughout the entire life cycle of the machinery. This includes providing information on the machinery's intended use, its functional safety requirements, and any relevant maintenance procedures.

Conclusion

ISO 55066:2014 is an essential standard for manufacturers of industrial machinery seeking to ensure functional safety. By following its guidelines and requirements, companies can minimize the risk of accidents and protect both workers and the environment.

The standard's focus on safety-related control systems ensures that machinery is designed and manufactured with the necessary measures to detect and respond to unsafe conditions. This comprehensive approach, combined with thorough risk assessments and documentation, enables manufacturers to meet the highest safety standards, ultimately creating a safer working environment for all.