Machine Safety Risk Assessment

May 13, 2013
Explore the process of conducting a risk assessment and leveraging EN ISO 13849-1 for machine safety and performance benefits in this comprehensive guide.
About the Author

Jim Montague is the executive editor for Control. Email him at [email protected].

The first steps in improving machine safety and gaining its performance benefits begin with conducting a risk assessment (RA), and the most up-to-date standard that shows how is EN ISO 13849-1. This process and related calculations are described in ABB Jokab Safety's "Safety in Control Systems According to EN ISO 13849-1."

While understanding EN ISO 13849-1's calculations isn't too hard, there are software and online tools that can help. The freely downloadable Sistema software utility provides developers and testers of safety-related machine controls with comprehensive support in evaluating safety in the context of ISO 13849-1. It's available from the German Social Accident Insurance organization's Institute for Occupational Safety and Health.

Jim Montague | Executive Editor, Control
About the Author

Jim Montague | Executive Editor, Control

Jim Montague is executive editor of Control. He can be contacted at [email protected].

Sponsored Recommendations

Automation technology continues to advance the capabilities of packaging equipment.This new State of Technology Report from the editors of Control Design covers the ways packaging...
Protecting processes from explosive risks is a matter of life and property. Ensure electrical safety in hazardous locations by installing solutions certified to IEC and NEC standards...
Transform your machine's safety system. Discover how to upgrade with configurable products, scalable designs, and simplified wiring for improved diagnostics and long-term reliability...
Unlock the benefits of ASi with our Engineer’s Guide: Learn how to reduce wiring, cut costs, and improve flexibility in your automation systems.