2004 Conference Program TFFS

Information Session on Functional Safety

13:00 - 15:00, Monday, November 15

Functional Safety is emerging as a critical standardization issue for Canadian development, manufacturing and service industries. An important element of overall safety requirements, functional safety refers to the ability of a device or mechanism that is incorporated into a system or piece of equipment to prevent or minimize hazards that could lead to loss of life, injury or property damage. Functional safety systems often utilize advanced technologies, including electronic devices driven by software, to control the performance of the integrated safety device or mechanism. Functional Safety standards such as IEC 61058 and CSA C22.2 No. 0.8 serve as framework guidelines to help minimize or control the types of dangerous failures most often associated with these systems.

The CNC/IEC Task Force on Functional Safety (TFFS) organized this session to help participants understand why a Functional Safety standard is needed and how standardization efforts benefit Canadian industries and businesses. Examples were drawn from specific issues for safety applications. The event also presented attendees with the opportunity to meet with Functional Safety experts and industry peers.