What is EN 62061:2020?

EN 62061:2020, also known as "Safety of machinery – Functional safety of electrical, electronic and programmable electronic control systems," is a European standard that provides guidelines for ensuring the safety of machinery and related systems. It focuses specifically on electrical, electronic, and programmable electronic control systems and their functionality in relation to safety.

The Purpose of EN 62061:2020

The primary purpose of EN 62061:2020 is to assist manufacturers, system integrators, and other relevant stakeholders in implementing adequate safety measures in machinery and control systems. This standard outlines the necessary requirements and procedures to achieve functional safety and reduce the risk of hazards associated with machinery operation. Compliance with EN 62061:2020 helps to protect both operators and end-users from potential accidents or injuries caused by machine malfunctions.

Main Features and Requirements

EN 62061:2020 establishes a systematic approach to assessing and managing the risks associated with machinery. It defines safety integrity levels (SILs) for control systems and provides guidelines for the design, implementation, and validation of safety-related control functions.

Some of the main features and requirements of EN 62061:2020 include:

Identification and evaluation of potential hazards and risks

Development of safety requirements specification

Implementation of hardware and software safety measures

Verification of safety functions

Safety-related documentation and management of change processes

Benefits and Applicability

Compliance with EN 62061:2020 not only helps manufacturers ensure the safety of their machinery but also provides several other benefits. First and foremost, it enhances the reputation of a company by demonstrating a commitment to producing safe and reliable products. It also minimizes the potential for costly litigation resulting from accidents and reduces the overall risk to human life and property.

EN 62061:2020 is applicable to various industries involving machinery usage, such as manufacturing, construction, energy, and transportation. It applies to both new machinery designs and modifications of existing machinery. Additionally, it can be used as a reference for those involved in assessing the safety of machines, including engineers, designers, and authorities responsible for regulatory compliance.