Categories
- Machine Tools: Cutting (3,917)
- Machine Tools: Metalforming, shearing, folding and punching (1,481)
- Machine Tools: moulding (1,058)
- Cutting tools (1,766)
- Welding and Joining (1,488)
- Finishing, preparation, coating and painting (1,025)
- Automation and assembly systems (1,044)
- Manufacturing support (8,593)
- Industry news, commerce, exhibitions, education (8,185)
- Packaging (2,865)
- Specialist Manufacturing Sectors and Metals Producing (1,318)
- Books, CDs and Videos (189)
- IT for manufacturing management and production (3,425)
- IT for engineering, industrial and commercial applications (4,837)
- Manufacturing IT hardware and communications (1,569)
- Used machinery and machine tools (29)
- Materials handling and storage (912)
- Wood and non-metallics working (73)
- Metrology instruments and systems (3,798)
- Testing and quality control systems and services (4,939)
- Subcontracting services (1,142)
Safety system pressure group formed
Companies using the international safety system standard IEC 61508 have banded together to promote the benefits of accredited certification to the standard.
Companies using the international safety system standard IEC 61508 have banded together to promote the benefits of accredited certification to the standard.
The 61508 Association grew out of an informal group of manufacturers, users and certifiers of safety related systems.
The 61508 Association has already established strong links with the UK's Health and Safety Executive (HSE) and with The CASS Scheme.
HSE played a major role in the development of the standard [as an aid to demonstrating the adequacy of safety related systems].
The CASS Scheme set up a certification scheme which defines the methodology for demonstrating the conformity of these systems with the standard.
One of the Association1s founder members Rob Stockham said: "The transition from an informal 'club' to The 61508 Association is a significant step forward to all those throughout the safety life cycle and supply chain, who need help, honest information and a forum to exchange ideas.
The participation of the HSE and The CASS Scheme Ltd.
gives credibility to the Association and provides the vital opportunity for all concerned to learn from each other and continue to develop the best ways to adopt and use IEC 61508." HSE has issued a statement on accredited certification to IEC 61508 by the CASS route.
In it they recognize the value of schemes such as CASS in helping duty holders to demonstrate that the functional safety of safety related systems has been properly addressed.
In the context of regulatory regimes where safety cases are required, the adoption of schemes such as CASS could provide useful evidence as part of the demonstration that risks have been reduced as low as reasonably practicable (ALARP).
The Association pursues its aim through meetings with influential organizations, publication of articles on the benefits of accredited certification of conformity with IEC 61508 and helping members and others involved with safety related systems to find information relating to the application of IEC 61508.
Through discussions between members, common problems can be identified and joint efforts applied to finding solutions.
By representing all companies which are interested in accredited certification to IEC 61508 the Association can use its influence to enhance the value of safety-related systems.
Companies interested in joining or just finding out more about the practical application of IEC 61508 and related standards can participate as guests for a limited period before deciding to become a member.
Not what you're looking for? Search the site.
Related Stories