What is the ISO 13849 standard ?

The ISO 13849 standard is an essential tool for designing and implementing safety-related control systems in machinery. It is widely recognized and widely used in various industries to ensure the safety of operators and prevent accidents.

ISO 13849 is a performance-based standard that evaluates the safety of a control system by analyzing the performance of safety-related parts and components. It provides guidelines for determining the required Performance Level (PL) based on the severity of potential injuries, the frequency and duration of exposure to hazards, and the possibility of avoiding or limiting harm.

The scope of IEC 61508 is much wider, targeting all industries involved in functional safety. It provides a framework for the entire safety lifecycle of electrical, electronic, and programmable electronic systems (E/E/PE). The standard covers a range of applications, including machinery, as well as other fields like automotive, aerospace, and process industries.

ISO 13849 and IEC 61508 differ in their approach. ISO 13849 adopts a performance-based approach, while IEC 61508 is more focused on a system-based approach.

In conclusion, ISO 13849 is an important standard for ensuring the safety of machinery, while IEC 61508 is a more comprehensive standard that targets all industries involved in functional safety. Both standards provide valuable guidelines for designing and implementing safety-related control systems, helping to prevent accidents and ensure the well-being of workers.