Risk analysis for safe operation

Our RAMS team specialises in creating tailored risk analyses. With years of experience and comprehensive expertise, we support our customers in examining their rolling stock, infrastructure and business processes for potential risks and developing appropriate measures to ensure smooth and safe operations.

Our experts conduct detailed analyses to identify potential hazards and assess risks. We consider not only technical aspects but also legal regulations, operational procedures and external influences. Based on these analyses, we develop customised concepts and solutions tailored to the individual requirements and needs of our customers.

Our goal is to help our customers minimise risks and maximise operational safety. Through our professional services, we contribute to preventing accidents, reducing operational downtime and increasing efficiency in the company.

Our RAMS team understands that your company’s success depends on the ability to identify potential risks early and address them proactively. With well-founded approaches to risk analysis, we offer you a comprehensive assessment of your rolling stock and infrastructure projects to identify potential damages and probabilities of occurrence.

Approaches used include, for example:

The procedure according to EN 50126 is a European standard that deals with the specification and demonstration of Reliability, Availability, Maintainability and Safety (RAMS) of railway systems. The procedure according to EN 50126 defines a structured process for the systematic analysis and assessment of risks related to railway systems.

The process according to EN 50126 includes several phases that are carried out in sequence to conduct a comprehensive risk analysis. These phases are:

System definition: In this phase, the requirements for the railway system are established and the system architecture is defined.

Risk analysis: In this phase, potential hazards and risks are identified and assessed. This includes, for example, technical risks, operational risks and external risks.

Risk evaluation: In this phase, the identified risks are evaluated based on their probability of occurrence and their impacts. Measures for risk mitigation and control are also developed.

Risk management: In this phase, measures for risk mitigation and control are implemented and monitored. This includes, for example, the implementation of safety measures, staff training and regular audits.

The procedure according to EN 50126 places great emphasis on systematic and transparent risk analysis to ensure the safety and reliability of railway systems. By applying this approach, potential risks can be identified early and effective risk mitigation measures can be developed.
The CSM (Common Safety Method) The Common Safety Method (CSM) is a method used in the European railway industry to ensure the safety of railway systems. The CSM is defined in the Technical Specification for Interoperability (TSI) for railway safety and defines a uniform framework for risk assessment and safety management in rail transport.

The CSM is based on the risk management approach and includes various steps to identify, assess and control potential risks. The key elements of the Common Safety Method include:

Risk analysis: In this step, potential hazards and risks related to railway systems are identified and assessed. Both technical and operational risks are considered.

Safety objectives: Based on the risk analysis, safety objectives are set that need to be achieved to ensure safety in railway operations.

Safety demonstration: The CSM requires a formal safety demonstration that proves that the defined safety objectives are achieved and that the risks are reduced to an acceptable level.

Safety management: The Common Safety Method also emphasises effective safety management, which includes the implementation of safety measures, regular reviews and audits, and continuous improvement of safety performance.

The Common Safety Method is an important part of the European legal framework for safety in rail transport and contributes to ensuring a high level of safety across the industry. By applying the CSM, railway operators and manufacturers can ensure that their systems comply with applicable safety standards and that a safe operating environment is guaranteed.
FMEA (Failure Mode and Effect Analysis) and FMECA (Failure Mode, Effects and Criticality Analysis) are two related methods used in various industries, including the railway industry, to identify and assess potential malfunctions and their effects.

Here is some information on both methods:

Failure Mode and Effect Analysis (FMEA): FMEA is a systematic method for identifying and evaluating potential malfunctions in a system, process or product. It assesses the possible causes of failure, the effects of the failures and the probability of occurrence.

FMEA typically includes the following steps:

Identification of possible sources of failure (Failure Modes)

Assessment of the effects of these failures (Effects)

Assessment of the probability of occurrence of the failures (Probability)

Assessment of the detectability of the failures before their effects (Detectability)

Development of measures for risk mitigation and control

FMEA is often used to identify potential risks early and develop appropriate measures for failure prevention or mitigation.

Failure Mode, Effects and Criticality Analysis (FMECA): FMECA is an extended form of FMEA that, in addition to identifying malfunctions, also assesses the critical significance of the failures. It considers the effects of failures on the safety, reliability and availability of the system.

FMECA typically includes the following steps:

Identification of possible sources of failure (Failure Modes)

Assessment of the effects of these failures (Effects)

Assessment of the probability of occurrence of the failures (Probability)

Assessment of the critical significance of the failures (Criticality)

Development of measures for risk mitigation and control

FMECA is often used in safety-critical industries such as the railway industry to improve the reliability and safety of systems and minimise potential risks.
The methods FTA (Fault Tree Analysis) and ETA (Event Tree Analysis) Fault Tree Analysis (FTA) and Event Tree Analysis (ETA) are two other important methods for risk analysis in various industries, including the railway industry. Here is some information on both methods:

Fault Tree Analysis (FTA): Fault Tree Analysis is a logical method for analysing potential causes of failure and their effects on a system. FTA involves creating a tree diagram that represents the logical relationships between various sources of failure, failure modes and possible effects. FTA typically includes the following steps:

Identification of top events that can cause system failure

Creation of a logical tree that represents the causes and effects of the top events

Assessment of the probability of occurrence of individual failure sources and failure modes

Analysis of critical paths in the fault tree to identify the main causes of system failure

Development of measures for risk mitigation and control

FTA is often used to analyse complex systems, identify potential sources of failure and assess the effects of failures on the overall system.

Event Tree Analysis (ETA): Event Tree Analysis is a method for analysing possible event sequences and their effects on a system. ETA involves creating a tree diagram that represents the logical consequences of various events and decisions. ETA typically includes the following steps:

Identification of initiating events that trigger the event tree

Creation of a logical tree that represents possible subsequent events and decisions

Assessment of the probability of occurrence of individual events and decisions

Analysis of critical paths in the event tree to identify the main effects on the system

Development of measures for risk mitigation and control

ETA is often used to analyse complex event sequences, identify potential risks and assess the effects of events on the overall system.

Our services include, among others:

Risk assessment and prioritisation: We analyse your operational processes and identify potential risks, considering the damage and probability of occurrence of each risk.
Risk mitigation strategies: Based on our findings, we develop tailored strategies for risk mitigation to protect your investments and ensure long-term safe operations.
Continuous risk management: We offer ongoing monitoring and adjustment of your risk management strategies to ensure your company is prepared for changes in the operating environment.

Rely on Enotrac to minimise your risks and maximise your success.

Talk to our experts

Vanessa Hänni

Head of Team Assessment

RAMS Divison

vanessa.haenni@enotrac.com +41 33 346 66 34
Christof Mezenen

Head of Team Consulting

RAMS Divison

christof.mezenen@enotrac.com +41 33 346 66 97
Alberto Perletto

Senior Project Manager / Project Engineer

RAMS Divison

alberto.perletto@enotrac.com +41 33 346 66 29

Safety concepts and risk analysis in rail technology

Enotrac relies on comprehensive safety concepts and risk analyses in railway operations. Our goal is to develop and evaluate safer railway systems. We use proven methods and standards such as FMEA and FMECA to analyze and assess risks. We also simulate crash scenarios to test the resilience of railway systems at train collisions and level crossings. Our solutions meet the highest safety standards and are individually adapted to the needs of our customers. We also offer support in the development of safety concepts for technical solutions in the rail sector, such as door control systems.

Methods and standards for risk analysis in rail technology
Risk analysis according to proven methods and standards

Safety in rail operations is of the utmost importance, and the application of proven methods and standards is central to safety. At Enotrac, we offer our customers and partners comprehensive support in the development and operation of rail systems. An essential part of our services is the implementation of risk analyses based on established methods and relevant standards.

EN 50126 and CSM-RA: the basis for rail safety

In rail technology, the EN 50126 and CSM-RA standards are of particular importance. They serve to achieve various safety objectives. These include obtaining the operating license and type approval for new rolling stock, as well as checking existing vehicles for their suitability for use under special traffic conditions.

CSM-RA regulation and the risk management process

The CSM-RA Regulation, also known as “Common Safety Methods – Risk Assessment”, was introduced to meet the requirements of the Interoperability Directive 2008/57/EC. This regulation requires the implementation of risk management for changes to subsystems of the rail system. It defines a structured and documented process that legally requires the identification of hazards, risk assessment, the definition of safety measures to control risk and the corresponding verification.

Updates and additions for safety

Over time, the legislation governing rail safety has been updated and expanded. Regulation (EC) No. 352/2009 has now been replaced and expanded by Implementing Regulation (EU) No. 402/2013 and Implementing Regulation (EU) No. 2015/1136. These updates and additions are crucial to continuously improving safety aspects in the rail sector.

DIN EN 50126: A key standard for railway safety

DIN EN 50126 is a central standard that, in conjunction with the parallel standards DIN EN 50128/DIN EN 50657 and DIN EN 50129, represents the specific adaptation of the basic safety standard DIN EN 61508 for the railway industry. According to the IRIS (International Railway Industry Standard) regulations, this standard is mandatory for all areas of railway technology. This includes train control and signaling (signaling technology), rolling stock, and fixed installations.

Comprehensive RAMS coverage

DIN EN 50126 deals with the determination and verification of reliability, availability, maintainability and safety (RAMS) for all railway applications and in all relevant life cycle phases. This standard is primarily intended for railway companies and railway suppliers, but its generally valid formulation also allows it to be applied outside the railway sector as part of a systematic RAMS/LCC specification and verification process.

DIN EN 50126: Part 1

Since its update in 2017, DIN EN 50126 consists of two parts. Part 1 defines terms, generic tasks in the RAMS life cycle and a systematic process for defining RAMS requirements. This part provides a clear guide on how to identify and assess risks at different life cycle stages.

Part 2: Safety aspects of the RAMS life cycle

Part 2 of EN 50126 is dedicated to the safety-related aspects of the RAMS life cycle. It provides guidance and procedures to ensure the safety of rail systems and to assess safety-critical risks. These standards are the foundation for ensuring safety in rail technology and help to ensure that rail systems meet the highest safety standards.

Risk analysis workshops

Our services in the area of hazard analysis are of paramount importance for ensuring safety in railway operations. We organize, prepare and facilitate hazard analysis workshops, which are a crucial step in identifying and evaluating relevant risks in the railway sector.

Organization and preparation

Organizing and preparing hazard identification workshops requires an in-depth understanding of rail systems and their specific risks. We ensure that relevant experts and stakeholders participate in the workshops to get a comprehensive picture of the hazards. Participants are selected based on the specific requirements of the project and may include engineers, operations managers, safety experts and other professionals.

Facilitation and execution

During the workshops, we act as experienced moderators who guide the process and ensure that it is effective and focused. We encourage participants to openly discuss and collaborate to identify all possible hazards and risks. These workshops are interactive and require active participation from the participants to ensure a comprehensive analysis.

Creation and maintenance of the hazard record

After identifying and discussing hazards, we create a comprehensive hazard record. This record documents all identified hazards and the results of their assessment. It provides a clear overview of the identified risks and allows stakeholders to get an overview of the status of the safety analysis. This protocol is not only created, but also actively maintained to ensure that it is always up to date and meaningful.

Assessment of identified hazards

Identifying hazards is just the first step. Risk assessment is particularly important for prioritizing hazards and planning appropriate security measures. We assess the identified hazards by considering factors such as probability, impact, and controls. These assessments serve as the basis for developing risk mitigation and security optimization measures.

System definition and interfaces

An important component of the risk analysis is the determination of the system definition, which includes the persons, devices and procedures concerned. This also involves identifying the interfaces to other systems or processes. The security requirements specification is prepared in accordance with the CSM-RA and the CENELEC standards, whereby clear requirements are formulated.

Safety Analyses

Enotrac performs comprehensive safety analyses to verify and ensure that rail systems meet the highest reliability and safety standards. These analyses incorporate various methods and techniques that are crucial in the field of risk analysis and safety assessment.

One of these methods is the Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA). This identifies and assesses potential failures by analyzing their effects on the system, their probability of occurrence, and the probability of their detection. This makes it possible to take steps to prevent or reduce failures and increase technical reliability.

The failure mode and effects analysis with criticality evaluation (FMECA) is an extension of the FMEA that provides additional quantitative information on the criticality of failures. It takes into account the interactions of different failure causes and mechanisms. This enables a more in-depth analysis and identification of critical weaknesses in the system.

The Failure Modes and Effects Analysis with Diagnostics for Hardware (FMEDA) focuses on the hardware components of a system. It is used to determine the causes of failures and their effects in detail. Especially in the early phases of system development, FMEDA is extremely efficient in identifying and eliminating possible weak points at an early stage.

The fault tree analysis (FTA) uses Boolean algebra to determine the probability of a system failure. It analyzes the logical links between subsystem failures that can lead to an overall failure. This method is used in industries such as aerospace and nuclear power engineering to ensure the safety and reliability of systems.

Finally, event tree analysis is also one of the safety analyses carried out by Enotrac. It looks at the sequence of events that can lead to a system failure. This helps to identify potential risks and weak points in the system and to take appropriate measures to reduce risk.

These safety analyses are of great importance to avoid safety-related failures and to verify compliance with safety standards. Enotrac uses these analyses in various industries and sectors to ensure the safety and quality of products and processes. Our experts understand the specific requirements and methods that apply in different industries and apply them in a targeted manner to achieve the highest standards and minimize risks.

Impact assessment

Our expertise extends to the application of specific standards for estimating the extent of damage in the event of train collisions and level crossing collisions. We carry out crash simulations and compare the results with reference scenarios, taking into account the car body strength according to EN 12663-1. This standard defines minimum requirements for the strength of car bodies and forms the basis for their construction. The strength of the car is crucial to how well the car body can withstand external forces, such as train collisions and level crossing collisions.

Safety Concepts and Architectures

Enotrac’s expertise in rail technology extends far beyond mere risk analysis. We understand the complexities and unique requirements of the sector and are committed to providing our clients with comprehensive support in developing and evaluating safety concepts and architectures for various technical solutions in the rail sector. One example of such solutions is door control and monitoring systems, which are crucial for the safety and smooth operation of trains and rail systems.

In our work, we take the lead in coordinating interdisciplinary teams and ensure seamless collaboration between the various departments. We also work closely with external stakeholders, including independent assessors, to ensure that our safety concepts and architectures meet the highest standards.

Standards and regulations

Our approach is based on the applicable standards and regulations in the rail sector, which are essential for safety on rail systems. We use these standards as the basis for our work to ensure that our concepts and strategies meet the highest safety requirements.

Our comprehensive safety concepts and risk analyses are designed to ensure safety in rail operations and to minimize risks. Our main objective is to provide our customers with innovative solutions that not only meet the highest safety standards but also ensure the efficiency and smooth operation of their rail systems.