Certification for Functional Safety and Product Cybersecurity and Sustainability

Comprehensive Overview: Certification for Functional Safety, Product Cybersecurity, and Sustainability

Presented by Brian Kozumplik, Functional Safety Senior Systems Manager, Omnex Inc.

From this important session at the recent Virtual Customer Conference, Brian Kozumplik explained the critical importance of certifications in functional safety, cybersecurity, and sustainability. These certifications were highlighted as essential tools for organizations to ensure compliance, build trust, and address the complexities of modern product development.

Key Themes Discussed

1. The Importance of Certification

Brian began the session by emphasizing the role of certifications in providing independent validation of compliance with global standards. He explained that certifications demonstrate a commitment to safety, security, and sustainability, which are key to building credibility with customers and regulators. Highlighted certifications included:

• ISO 26262 for functional safety.
• ISO/SAE 21434 and TISAX for cybersecurity.
• ISO 14064 and related standards for sustainability.

He stressed that these certifications are not just compliance tools but strategic advantages in today’s competitive landscape.

2. Functional Safety

The presenter delved into the foundational role of functional safety in ensuring reliable system performance, even under fault conditions. He outlined key areas such as:

• Product Certification:
• Verification of embedded systems and autonomous driving features in line with ISO 26262 and SOTIF (ISO 21448).
• Management Audits:
• Assessments to ensure organizational processes align with functional safety standards.
• Training Programs:
• Comprehensive courses designed to equip professionals with the knowledge to implement functional safety across product lifecycles.

Brian further illustrated these points with examples of how functional safety certifications mitigate risks in critical automotive systems.

3. Product Cybersecurity

Shifting focus to cybersecurity, the presenter emphasized the growing risks posed by cyber threats and the importance of robust cybersecurity frameworks:

• Cybersecurity Management Systems:
• Certifications based on ISO/SAE 21434 ensure organizations are prepared to defend against cyber threats.
• Product Assessments:
• Evaluation of embedded devices to confirm adherence to cybersecurity engineering processes.
• Training Offerings:
• Programs focused on developing the skills required to implement and audit cybersecurity measures effectively.

He highlighted how these certifications enhance the security of not only products but also the supply chain.

4. Sustainability and Net Zero Goals

He highlighted the urgency of integrating sustainability into business operations, particularly through decarbonization and achieving net zero emissions. Key points included:

• Carbon Neutrality:
• Validation of GHG statements and carbon neutrality claims as integral to sustainability strategies.
• ISO 50001 for Energy Management:
• A standard recommended for reducing carbon footprints and optimizing energy efficiency.
• Decarbonization Strategies:
• Practical guidance on adopting renewable energy, circular economy principles, and carbon offset programs.

Brian explained that sustainability certifications are pivotal for organizations looking to align with global climate goals and achieve long-term resilience.

Omnex’s Unique Role

The presenter elaborated on OmnexFuturepast’s leadership in providing comprehensive certification, audit, and training services:

• Third-Party Certifications:
• Covering areas like functional safety, cybersecurity, and sustainability, including ASPICE and ISO 26262.
• Futurepast Integration:
• The recent acquisition of Futurepast Inc. has expanded Omnex’s capabilities in GHG verification and net zero consulting.
• Comprehensive Services:
• Support for organizations transitioning to safer, more sustainable practices through integrated management systems.

He emphasized Omnex’s mission to drive global excellence in safety and sustainability.

Training and Support Services

To equip professionals with the necessary expertise, the presenter highlighted Omnex’s extensive training programs:

• Functional Safety:
• Training on preparing safety cases, conducting hazard analyses, and performing risk assessments.
• Cybersecurity:
• Courses focused on threat analysis, risk mitigation, and implementing robust cybersecurity frameworks.
• ASPICE:
• Personnel and process certification programs aligned with PAM 4.0 standards.

These offerings, he explained, are designed to empower teams to meet industry challenges effectively.

Key Takeaways

The session concluded with Brian reinforcing that certifications in functional safety, cybersecurity, and sustainability are indispensable for modern organizations. He encouraged attendees to leverage Omnex’s expertise to ensure compliance and foster innovation in their industries.

Contact Omnex for tailored certification and training services, ensuring your organizations meet global standards and achieve leadership in their fields.