Standards Development

Scope

This document set out the requirements for the development and integration of safety-related sensors (SRS) and safety-related sensor systems (SRSS) used for the protection of persons with particular attention to systematic capabilities.

This generic standard applies if:

–        protection of persons is to be performed by using sensors; and

–        product specific sensor standards (e.g. IEC 61496 (all parts), EN IEC 60947-5-2) do not contain the necessary provisions, or product specific sensor standards are not developed.

This generic standard can be applied also for other protective goals like protection of the environment or prevent production goods damages.

The examination of systematic capabilities using different safety-related sensor standards is described in Annex A.

The requirements and methods set out in this document are intended for the purpose of protection of persons by:

–        detection of potentially hazardous objects;

–        detection of a body, parts of a body and objects associated to parts of a body entering a hazardous area; or

–        classification and/or discrimination of these against other objects.

NOTE 1 The application of SRS/SRSS in a public setting can require the detection of not only persons, but also their associated equipment, such as wheelchairs, walking sticks or infusion stands.

Performance classes of sensors and sensor systems are defined in accordance with existing functional safety standards (e.g. IEC 62061, IEC 61508 (all parts), and ISO 13849 (all parts)).

NOTE 2 This document does not define or interconnect the types as defined in IEC 61496-1 to simplify the process and prevent misuse. By correlating to existing PL or SIL, we have achieved simplification for end users.

Specific attention is devoted to the evaluation of the sensing function and dependability of the detection capability. Environmental influences and tests for indoor and outdoor use are defined that influence the sensing function and the dependability of the detection capability.

NOTE 3 Environmental influences, their classification and test procedures are primarily specified in accordance with generic environmental standards. In the absence of respective standards, more specific requirements and tests are described.

This document can be relevant for applications other than the protection of persons in industry, such as agriculture or public transportation (e.g. metro stations).

This document does not consider or address proven in-use (e.g. processes or elements) as defined in IEC 61508-2.