What is the difference between ISO 26262 and IEC 61508?

In today's world, where technology plays a significant role in our lives, safety becomes a critical factor especially in industries like automotive and nuclear. In order to ensure the safety of these systems, various international standards have been developed. Two such standards are ISO 26262 and IEC 61508. Although they both revolve around functional safety, there are fundamental differences between them. This article aims to shed light on those differences.

ISO 26262 - Safety for Road Vehicles

ISO 26262 is an international standard specifically designed for the functional safety of electrical and electronic systems in road vehicles. It focuses on the potential hazards caused by the malfunctioning of these systems, aiming to identify and mitigate risks throughout the development process. This standard provides guidelines for automotive manufacturers and suppliers to establish a systematic approach towards achieving functional safety.

IEC 61508 - Functional Safety of Electrical/Electronic/Programmable Electronic Safety-Related Systems

In contrast, IEC 61508 provides a generic framework for ensuring functional safety across various industries, including but not limited to automotive. It is applicable to a wide range of safety-related systems, from power plants to medical devices. This standard emphasizes the need for a thorough understanding of potential hazards and their impact on human life and the environment. It enables organizations to develop safety practices and technologies that reduce the likelihood of accidents or failures.

Differences between ISO 26262 and IEC 61508

Scope: While ISO 26262 is tailored specifically for road vehicles, IEC 61508 has a wider application across multiple sectors.

Level of Detail: ISO 26262 provides more detailed requirements for automotive systems, addressing specific aspects like the development process, functional safety management, and product-level requirements. IEC 61508, on the other hand, offers a more generic framework without going into the specifics of any particular industry.

Compliance: ISO 26262 compliance is mandatory for automotive manufacturers and suppliers, ensuring that their products meet the required level of functional safety. IEC 61508 compliance, while not mandatory in all industries, is often used as a reference standard, providing guidance for developing safety-related systems.

Conclusion

Both ISO 26262 and IEC 61508 serve the purpose of ensuring functional safety, but they differ in scope, level of detail, and compliance requirements. ISO 26262 focuses specifically on road vehicles, providing detailed guidelines for the automotive industry. IEC 61508 is a broader standard applicable across various industries, emphasizing a generic framework for functional safety. Understanding these differences is crucial for organizations and professionals involved in safety-critical systems to ensure compliance and mitigate risks effectively.