What is IEC 61508-7:2010-AMD12018?

IEC 61508-7:2010 + AMD1:2018 is an international standard that specifies the requirements for software in safety-related systems. This standard, often referred to simply as IEC 61508, provides guidance and guidelines for the development, verification, and validation of software used in systems where safety is critical.

The Purpose and Scope of IEC 61508-7:2010-AMD12018

The main purpose of IEC 61508 is to ensure that software used in safety-related systems is developed and maintained with a high level of confidence, reducing the risk of systematic failures that could lead to accidents or harm to people and the environment.

This standard applies to software used in a wide range of industries, including nuclear power plants, chemical processing plants, railways, aviation, and medical devices. It covers the entire software lifecycle, from initial concept and design to operation and maintenance. Compliance with IEC 61508 is often required by regulatory bodies and can be seen as a mark of quality and reliability.

Main Features and Requirements of IEC 61508-7:2010-AMD12018

IEC 61508-7:2010-AMD12018 sets out specific requirements for software in safety-related systems, including:

Software planning and management: The standard emphasizes careful planning and documentation of the software development process. This includes defining the safety requirements, identifying potential hazards, and managing risks.

Verification and validation: IEC 61508 requires thorough testing and analysis of the software to ensure its correctness and reliability. This includes both static techniques (such as code inspections) and dynamic techniques (such as simulation and testing).

Configuration management: The standard emphasizes the importance of maintaining control over software versions, changes, and configurations. This ensures that any modifications are properly documented, tested, and validated.

Maintenance and modification: IEC 61508 addresses the need for ongoing maintenance and support of safety-related software. It provides guidelines for managing updates, modifications, and enhancements to the software without compromising its safety and integrity.

Conclusion

IEC 61508-7:2010-AMD12018 is a critical international standard for ensuring the safety and reliability of software used in safety-related systems. Compliance with this standard helps reduce the risk of accidents or harm caused by software failures. By following the requirements set out in IEC 61508, organizations can develop and maintain high-quality software that meets the highest safety standards.