# IEC 61508
#standard #safety #certification
IEC 61508 is an international standard for functional safety of electrical, electronic, and programmable electronic safety-related systems.
## Purpose
- Provides framework for safety lifecycle
- Defines requirements for safety integrity levels (SIL)
- Applies to all industries
- Foundation for sector-specific standards
## Key Concepts
- **Safety Integrity Level (SIL)**: Quantitative measure of safety performance
- **Safety Lifecycle**: Systematic approach to safety management
- **Risk Assessment**: Evaluation of hazards and risks
- **Functional Safety**: Part of overall safety dependent on correct functioning
## SIL Levels
- SIL 1: Low risk reduction
- SIL 2: Moderate risk reduction
- SIL 3: High risk reduction
- SIL 4: Very high risk reduction
## Application to F&G Systems
- F&G control systems should be SIL-certified
- Ensures reliability and safety
- Required for worker protection
- Critical for asset protection in hazardous environments
## Relationship to Other Standards
- IEC 61511: Process industry sector implementation
- Foundation for F&G system certification
- Ensures systematic safety approach