EMC assurance and safety critical apparatus in a railway environment

Traditionally, electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) and safety have been viewed as two separate disciplines, however the increase in electronic and electrical apparatus performing safety and control functions is leading to a re-think of this relationship. Safety assurance requires a detailed analysis of all reasonably foreseeable risk, including that posed by exposure to electromagnetic fields. Risk mitigation is required for all identified EMI risk that could have an adverse effect on safety. For safety assurance, the traditional EMC approval processes are enhanced to reflect the safety implication. EMC engineers need to be familiar with tools and processes required for demonstrating safety from an EMC perceptive. This paper deals with the relationship between EMC and safety; and presents techniques that can be used to assure compliance