Automation Minutes 068 - 09.09.2009

Updated show notes: Gary talks with Mike Miller, business development manager with Rockwell Automation, about new machine safety standards effective Dec. 29, 2009. Functional safety is defined. EN ISO 13849 and IEC 62061 which replace EN 954 are explained. The impact of these standards and eventual benefits for machine builders and end users alike are also discussed. We learned on 9/9/09 that the European Commission has decided to postpone the deadline for manufacturers to comply with the new functional safety standard EN ISO 13849-1. In the meantime, they can continue designing to safety standard EN 954-1. The Commission said no further extension will be granted after 2012.