Following best practices for compliance with SN EN ISO 13849-2:2013 is vital for ensuring safety-related parts of control systems meet regulatory standards and are prepared for audits.

Best practices at a glance

This section introduces a checklist of best practices that cover essential aspects of SN EN ISO 13849-2:2013. These practices help you align with key clauses related to validation procedures, performance levels, and safety integrity requirements stipulated in the standard.

The practices

1. Conduct a thorough risk assessment.
   Ensuring a comprehensive risk assessment is foundational to identifying safety-related risks associated with machinery. This practice not only aligns with Clause 4 of SN EN ISO 13849-2:2013 but also helps avoid costly safety failures. A robust risk assessment informs the design process and elevates compliance with ISO 13849-1 compliance guidelines.

2. Establish clear validation planning.
   Develop a detailed validation plan that outlines the validation process for safety-related parts of control systems (SRP/CS). This practice is crucial as it ensures systematic evaluation and is linked to Clause 6.2 of SN EN ISO 13849-2:2013. A well-defined plan reduces the risk of oversight and enhances auditor confidence.

3. Utilize performance levels accurately.
   Properly classify and apply Performance Levels (PL) according to the functional requirements of your system. This practice is essential as it directly relates to Clause 5 of SN EN ISO 13849-2:2013. Misclassification can lead to inadequate safety measures, exposing systems to potential hazards.

4. Implement validation through testing.
   Conduct thorough testing of the safety-related parts of control systems to validate their performance under operational conditions. This aligns with Clause 7.3 of SN EN ISO 13849-2:2013. Validation through empirical testing helps identify real-world functionality issues, strengthening the safety integrity of your systems.

5. Maintain general and specific error lists.
   Develop and regularly update error lists that account for both general and specific errors associated with your SRP/CS. This practice corresponds to Clause 6.4 of SN EN ISO 13849-2:2013 and enhances the ability to proactively address potential failures, thereby improving overall safety reliability.

6. Engage in continuous training and education.
   Ensure that personnel involved in the design, implementation, and validation of control systems are adequately trained on ISO 13849-1 compliance requirements. This is crucial for maintaining compliance and aligns with the spirit of continuous improvement found in safety standards, including IEC 61508 standards for functional safety.

7. Document all compliance processes.
   Maintain thorough documentation of all processes related to validation and compliance with SN EN ISO 13849-2:2013. This practice supports transparency and accountability, essential for satisfying auditor expectations and aligning with Clause 8 of the standard.

8. Review and update compliance practices regularly.
   Establish a routine for reviewing and updating your compliance practices to keep pace with evolving regulations and technology. This proactive approach helps ensure ongoing adherence to ISO 13849-1 safety performance levels and IEC 61508 safety integrity levels.

Audit preparation checklist

• Conduct a thorough risk assessment.
• Establish a clear validation planning document.
• Accurately utilize performance levels for safety functions.
• Implement validation through testing techniques.
• Maintain updated general and specific error lists.
• Engage in continuous training and education for staff.
• Document all compliance processes comprehensively.
• Review and update compliance practices regularly.

Next steps

To further enhance your understanding and implementation of these best practices, consider investing in training programs, accessing implementation guides, or purchasing the SN EN ISO 13849-2:2013 standard for deeper insights.