Automation World’s “Get Your Questions Answered” podcast recently featured a compelling discussion on the evolving landscape of risk assessments in industrial automation, emphasizing the need for integrated risk management. Hosted by David Greenfield, editor in chief at Automation World, the episode explored how the integration of digital twin cybersecurity considerations are reshaping how manufacturers approach risk beyond traditional machine safety protocols, contributing to a more robust manufacturing risk assessment.
Greenfield engaged in a detailed conversation with Andrew Harris, I&C Michigan Team Lead | Director of Business Development – Controls at ACS. Their discussion dove into the broader impact of risk assessments on manufacturing operations, aiming to provide listeners with a comprehensive understanding that extends beyond the fundamental aspects of protecting workers and equipment. The conversation also touched upon specific technological elements that are now intertwined with the risk assessment process itself.
Harris shared his insights on how a holistic approach to risk assessment, a key element of integrated risk management, can contribute to reduced unplanned downtime and improved operational reliability. He also emphasized the critical importance of involving a diverse team, including IT professionals, in the risk assessment process to ensure both safety and cybersecurity considerations are thoroughly addressed. “By having a group with diverse experience, you’re able to leverage everyone’s different perspectives on the machine and really get to the bottom of making sure it’s safe,” said Harris. The discussion further explored the increasing significance of cybersecurity as an integral component of industrial risk assessments, highlighting how vulnerabilities in connected systems can have safety implications within the broader scope of manufacturing risk assessment.
Greenfield and Harris also examined the role of emerging technologies like digital twin cybersecurity in the validation phase of risk assessments, offering a safer environment for testing and verifying safety functions. Additionally, Harris provided his perspective on the use of safety PLCs and the ongoing considerations around the separation of safety and control networks in modern industrial environments. “Modern PLCs can keep safety and control separate within the same device, if set up correctly. The risk is that if it’s not done right, the safety rating doesn’t matter. Safety systems (input, logic, output) all need to meet high safety levels. Using a separate computer just for safety guarantees this.”
Through their conversation, Greenfield and Harris covered the evolving nature of risk assessments in the age of increasing connectivity and advanced technologies, underscoring the need for a comprehensive and integrated risk management approach, crucial for an effective manufacturing risk assessment.
Be sure to listen to the full podcast here.