Posted to News on 2nd Nov 2009, 10:46
Functional safety explained in new publication from ABB
ABB has published a Technical Guide to functional safety. Available as a PDF document, the publication outlines the basics of functional safety, explains what the new EU Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC means for machine builders, describes the practical steps required for compliance and highlights the applicable standards, background and theory.
One of the most useful sections in the document is that relating to EN 61800-5-2:2007 Adjustable speed electrical power drive systems - functional safety requirements. This explains how drives can be used as part of a safety-related control system to make machinery more cost-effective and user-friendly while maintaining a high level of safety and conforming with applicable standards and regulations.
The EU Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC applies to any new machinery placed n the market in the European Economic Area after 29 December 2009. It requires machine builders to carry out a documented risk assessment on the essential health and safety requirements relating to their product. This is necessary to CE mark the machinery.
Machine parts or incomplete machines must be supplied with a declaration of incorporation defining which requirements of the Directive apply and have been complied with.
Machine builders can carry out self-certification without a recognised test centre, provided that they have a quality assurance procedure according to the Directive.
The ABB Technical guide to functional safety can be requested by sending an email to [email protected].
ABB Automation Technologies (Drives and Motors)
3100 Daresbury Park
Daresbury
WA4 4BY
UNITED KINGDOM
44 1925 741 111
