Railway Functional Safety
Upholding the highest safety standards across electrical and programmable systems on modern rail assets.
Functional safety is a specialist area focusing on the safety of electrical, electronic or programmable systems on rolling stock.
Functional safety centred design, for example, is essential for ensuring advanced autonomous fleets secure the required approvals to enter into service. This is because so many onboard systems are interconnected, with components provided by a wide range of manufacturers.
Our experts will bring extensive knowledge of autonomous rail operations, but apply a pragmatic approach to the integration of functional safety through each stage of vehicle production, from the initial development of safety requirements to the preparation of safety evidence for safety authorities.
Projects
Dubai Metro and Tram
Read project
Manila Metro Line 7
Read project
Sydney Metro Shadow Operator
Read projectHow we can support you
Our functional safety services includes support throughout design and manufacture, as well as supporting the process of introducing rolling stock into service:
- Requirements review / explanation of requirements
- Defining the safety strategies and plans for managing the performance of new systems
- Identification and collection of risks
- Development of Safety Targets
- Safety consultancy on design and integration
- Hazard management
- Technical studies such as FMECA, FTA and RBD, supported by industry standard tools such as FaultTree+ and AvSim
- System validation to safety requirements
Benefits of working with Ricardo
- Access to a qualified safety team with members based across Europe, Asia and North America.
- Experience across all forms of rolling stock, from cutting edge high speed to automated people movers.
- Deep understanding of relevant safety standards, including:
- EN 50129 (IEC 62425) – System safety
- EN 50126 (IEC 62278) – RAMS
- EN 50128 (IEC 62279) – Software
Why choose Ricardo
International scope
Our international network of offices and rail technical centres supports the transfer of skills and experience from one region of the world to the next.
Whole-system mindset
We will help your teams apply systematic processes so that your engineering projects deliver a positive contribution to the wider rail system.
An industry voice
Our experts are leading contributors to the international committees, working groups and professional forums that define the rail industry’s technical standards.
Collaboration
We add value by working alongside your teams in an open and constructive partnership, offering balanced and insightful perspectives on the bigger picture.
Railway Functional Safety Resources
