The Safety Requirements Specification (SRS) is fundamental in the design and validation of safety-instrumented systems. It defines the safety integrity and functional requirements for each Safety Instrument Function (SIF) and acts as a direct link to the Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment Stages of the Safety Lifecycle. The SRS is an essential reference throughout the SIF's life cycle, from initial design to decommissioning. Maintenance procedures and proof testing should ensure that the SIF is functioning according to the SRS, and any modifications to the SIF must be accurately documented in the SRS.
Inadequate specification of safety instrumented systems (SIS) and safety instrumented functions (SIF) can have far-reaching safety implications, yet they are all too commonly overlooked. Inadequate specification is still the leading cause of Functional Safety issues. A silo approach that involves multiple 3rd parties or separate teams can quickly lead to a lack of a comprehensive and integrated plan to tie process hazards and scenarios to the SIF specification. This can have dire consequences, so it's important to be vigilant and aware of the potential risks. Don't let an oversight be the downfall of your safety program - make sure you are well-informed and properly prepared.
At Process Safety Consulting, we provide standard SRS templates that comply with national Functional Safety Standards BS EN 61508 and BS EN 61511, as well as Functional Safety Consultants who can help specify new equipment or retroactively specify existing equipment. We also offer assistance in generating proof testing and inspection procedures tailored to each SRS. By working with us, you can trust that your safety-instrumented system will meet the highest standards of safety and functionality.