Schutzsystems

Schutzsysteme, literally protective systems, is a category of engineered systems designed to prevent harm to people, equipment, and processes by reducing exposure to hazards. The term is used mainly in German-speaking engineering and safety contexts and encompasses hardware, software, and organizational measures that function together to achieve risk reduction to an acceptable level.

In industrial automation, Schutzsysteme comprise protective devices and safety-related control systems that either detect hazards or enforce a safe state when a fault occurs. They are typically implemented based on risk assessment and must comply with applicable standards and guidelines to ensure functional safety throughout the lifecycle of machinery.

Key concepts include fault detection, safe stop behavior, and redundancy; performance is described by quantitative metrics such as safety integrity levels (SIL) or performance levels (PL) and requires certified components and regular verification. The architecture may involve protective devices (emergency stop, safety interlocks, safety gates) and safety logic (safety relays, safety PLCs, or safety-rated software).

Lifecycle considerations include risk assessment, documentation, commissioning, monitoring, maintenance, and periodic re-evaluation. While commonly associated with machine safety, Schutzsysteme may also be referenced in other domains such as building safety or cybersecurity, depending on context.