Demand Mode vs. Continuous Mode Safety Function

Demand Mode Safety Function

Demand mode safety function is where a specified action is taken in response to process conditions or other demands. In the event of a dangerous failure of the SIF, a potential hazard only occurs in … Read more

What is the Safety Instrumented Function (SIF)?

The safety instrumented function (SIF) is used to monitor a selected process parameter and takes an executive action to make the process safe, if certain limits are exceeded.

An illustration of safety instrumented function in a process plant is shown … Read more

How HAZOP Technique is used to identify Hazards in a Process

In functional safety, hazards are events which have the potential to cause harm such as personal injury, damage to the environment or the business. Hazards in the process industry might include: the pressure of liquid in a vessel (high pressure … Read more

Safety Function in a Machine Control System

A safety function is executed by the safety-related parts of the machine control system to achieve or maintain the equipment under control in a safe state with respect to a specific hazard. A failure of the safety function can result … Read more

What is Safety Related Control System (SRCS)?

This is part of the control system of a machine that prevents a hazardous condition from occurring. It can be a separate dedicated system or it may be integrated with the ordinary machine control system.

What is Safety Related Control System (SRCS)?

The complexity of a safety … Read more

NEMA & IP Ratings for Enclosures

Enclosures are designed to isolate apparatus from certain conditions. In addition they are used to protect personnel from unsafe, accidental contact with the apparatus. An enclosure protection rating is a standardized way of identifying the ability of an enclosure to … Read more

How Ground Fault Interrupter (GFI) is used as a Safety Device

The function of a ground fault interrupter (GFI) is to disconnect the power if a current leakage to ground is detected. GFI is also termed to as Ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI).

We have two types of ground fault interrupters: … Read more

Methods of Protecting Instruments from Explosive Atmospheres

The protection method used in a specific hazardous location depends on the application, the technology available and the specific explosive atmosphere present.

In this article, we discuss the following methods of protection:

  • Encapsulation
  • Explosion-proof and Flameproof
  • Increased safety
  • Intrinsic safety
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Hazardous Locations Classifications

A hazardous location is defined as a location where fire or explosion hazards exist due to the presence of flammable gases, vapors, or liquids, combustible dusts or ignitable fibers.  Fire explosions can occur in a wide range of industrial environments … Read more

Functional Safety in Instrumentation Systems (SIS, SIF & SIL)

Functional safety is the risk reduction provided by the functions implemented to ensure the safe operations of the process.

The IEC 61508 standard covers functional safety of electrical/electronic/programmable electronic safety-related systems. The purpose of IEC 61508 is to use safety … Read more