Audits

Definition:
Audits in functional safety refer to systematic, documented reviews that check whether functional safety management (FSM) procedures, plans, and records are in place. More importantly, audits verify that the procedures are being followed by the facility.

These are facility-focused activities and are distinct from FSAs (functional safety assessments), which are more for the design portion of the lifecycle.

Key Points:

• Focuses on management systems, documentation, and evidence (procedures, training records, competency files, maintenance logs, MOC documentation).
• Often performed on operating facilities at planned intervals.
• Distinct from FSAs, which were dominant during the design period of the SIS.

Example:
An internal audit occurs every two years with a team of three members. One member is assigned to look into the requirements of the training program and to ensure those requirements are being met. The other two auditors are reviewing other parts of the program.

See Also: FSA, FSM

Cited Source:

• IEC 61511-1:2016, Clause 5.2.5.
• eFunctional Safety – article on Audit and FSA