Validation of software to meet IEC61508

Edited by the Electronicstalk editorial team Sep 18, 2002

Sira Test and Certification and the National Physical Laboratory are holding a one-day workshop on Tuesday 29th October on "Cost effective validation of software to meet IEC61508".

Sira Test and Certification and the National Physical Laboratory are holding a one-day workshop on Tuesday 29th October on "Cost effective validation of software to meet IEC61508".

The workshop, which is being held at Sira's headquarters in Chislehurst, Kent, is targeting those responsible for software in instrumentation and those using such software, who may at some point, be considering certification to IEC61508 (Functional safety of electrical/electronic/programmable electronic safety related systems).

Much of the current generation of instrumentation contains some software.

As quantifying the reliability or quality of such software is a difficult job, questions often arise from both the user and supplier of the software as to how they can be assured of the quality and standard of software they are using or supplying.

The workshop objective is to understand how software validation can be carried out in a cost effective manner, following established validation techniques.

Issues addressed will include: hearing first hand a summary of the best practice guide; shape the approach that IEC61508 certification bodies take to software validation; and understand and avoid common pitfalls that could cost money.

The workshop will consist of several short presentations by industry experts from Sira, NPL, the HSE and manufacturers, among others.

Discussion periods will also take place to enable delegates to discuss the issues raised throughout the day.

Delegates who participate in the workshop, which costs GBP 60 + VAT, will also receive a copy of the "Software validation best practice guide".

Issues covered in the guide include: considering the implications of the use of software in instrumentation; management aspects of the areas which defines a framework for an approach to quality assurance; and current good practice in software engineering and relating this practice to applications involving instrumentation.