A comprehensive checklist for auditing the integration of cybersecurity measures in functional safety systems, aligning with IEC 61508 principles and addressing the unique challenges of cyber-physical security in the energy and utilities sector.
IEC 61508 Cybersecurity in Functional Safety Audit Checklist
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About This Checklist
The IEC 61508 Cybersecurity in Functional Safety Audit Checklist is an essential tool for assessing the integration of cybersecurity measures within functional safety systems in the energy and utilities sector. This comprehensive checklist addresses the growing concern of cyber threats to safety-critical systems, aligning with IEC 61508 principles while incorporating cybersecurity best practices. By systematically evaluating threat modeling, security controls, incident response, and the impact of security measures on safety functions, this checklist helps organizations ensure that their safety systems are not only functionally safe but also resilient against cyber attacks. Implementing this checklist enhances the overall integrity of safety-critical systems and demonstrates a proactive approach to addressing the convergence of safety and security in the digital age.
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It evaluates how cybersecurity measures are integrated into the functional safety lifecycle, ensuring that security controls do not compromise safety functions and that safety systems are protected against cyber threats.
The checklist covers threat modeling for safety systems, security risk assessment, implementation of security controls, secure communication protocols, access control measures, incident detection and response, and the impact of security updates on safety integrity.
This checklist should involve a multidisciplinary team including functional safety engineers, cybersecurity specialists, control system engineers, IT professionals, and risk managers working in the energy and utilities sector.
It ensures that cybersecurity measures are considered throughout the safety lifecycle, helping to prevent cyber-induced safety failures and maintaining the integrity of safety functions in increasingly connected industrial environments.
Audits should be conducted at least annually, with additional assessments performed after significant system changes, newly identified cyber threats, or security incidents that could impact safety systems.
Benefits of IEC 61508 Cybersecurity in Functional Safety Audit Checklist
Ensures integration of cybersecurity considerations in functional safety systems
Reduces vulnerabilities in safety-critical control systems to cyber threats
Improves overall system resilience against both safety hazards and security risks
Facilitates compliance with evolving cybersecurity standards in safety-critical environments
Supports a holistic approach to risk management in digitalized industrial systems