Prior Use Assessment
IEC 61511 requires devices that make up a Safety Instrumented Function (SIF) to be either, assessed against the requirements of IEC 61508 or against the requirements of “Prior-Use”. Many facilities utilise equipment that is used in both Safety and Control functions and the operator has gained experience and confidence in these devices. In these circumstances, Prior Use may be considered a more suitable (and logical) alternative to replacing these devices for IEC 61508 assessed items of which the operator has no experience.
Why FSES?
FSES can conduct the assessments for sensing elements, logic solvers and low complexity devices such as solenoid valves, actuators, valves and relays. A key requirement is recording and analysis of failures encountered during operation, if necessary FSES can assist in putting in place a strategy to achieve this. For more information, or to discuss your needs for conducting the Prior Use assessment, please contact us using the form below or email info@fses.global.