Machine safety for automation environment with SMC

Machinery safety in automation focuses on reducing risks associated with the use of industrial equipment by applying preventive measures throughout the machine lifecycle. This includes identifying potential hazards, integrating protective systems such as safety controls and monitoring functions, and ensuring that machines behave predictably under both normal and fault conditions.

A well-implemented safety concept protects personnel, supports operational continuity, and helps manufacturers and operators meet European regulatory obligations.

SMC provides an extensive portfolio of machine safety solutions, including safety-rated pneumatic valves, air preparation units, flow control components, and check valves. These products are engineered to support risk reduction strategies, enhance operator safety, and help machine builders meet international safety standards applicable to automated machinery.

LVS ISO 13849-1 is a harmonized standard that defines how safety-related parts of control systems must be designed and assessed. It introduces the Performance Level (PL) methodology to evaluate the reliability of safety functions based on architecture, component reliability, and diagnostics. Applying this standard is essential for achieving CE conformity, as it ensures that control systems consistently reduce identified risks to acceptable levels.

With TÜV-certified components, SMC enables the implementation of multiple safety functions such as Safe Venting (SVE), Prevention of Unexpected Start-up (PUS), Safe Brake Control (SBC), and Safe Torque Off (STO). These functions are developed in line with EN ISO 13849-1 requirements and support dependable safety concepts in pneumatic and electropneumatic systems.

PneuSAFE is SMC’s free web-based configuration tool designed to support the rapid development of safety-related pneumatic circuits. It allows users to select validated safety architectures and generates essential outputs, including pneumatic diagrams, bills of materials, and SISTEMA-compatible data. This streamlines engineering activities and supports consistent documentation for safety validation and CE marking.

Machine safety in Latvia is regulated under the EU legal framework, including the Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC (transitioning to the EU Machinery Regulation from 2027). Key harmonized standards include EN ISO 12100 for risk assessment and EN ISO 13849-1/-2 for the design and validation of safety-related control systems. These regulations apply uniformly across EU member states and define the basis for safe machine design and conformity assessment.

Yes. SMC provides local support in Latvia through its sales and service organization, offering on-site consulting, machine safety training, and project-level assistance. Services include risk assessment support, safety concept development, technical documentation, and guidance throughout the CE-marking process.

For tailored guidance, you can contact SMC’s machine safety specialists using the contact options available on this page or directly reach out to your local SMC representative in Latvia. They can assist with technical questions, product selection, and safety compliance strategies.