An Assessment Methodology for Safety Critical Computer Based Systems

Abstract

Highlights of an assessment methodology for safety critical computer based systems are presented. The methodology establishes a framework for stakeholder understanding of important properties and issues. Within the framework, the nature of underlying engineering activities, the attributes of the product as well as the activities of the provision process are examined. A safety case approach is advocated where providers of safety critical systems should “a priori” assume that legal action has been brought against them for the product they are about to produce. The methodology examines the product/project at various levels to assure that providers have taken “all reasonable steps” to assure product safety. Two sets of safety related questions are posed (basic and penetrating) which reflect the levels of assessment. The work presented is being developed for the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration.