What are safety-critical systems and how are they tested?

What are safety-critical systems and how are they tested?

Safety-critical systems are systems whose failure could result in loss of life, significant property damage, or environmental harm. They are tested rigorously to ensure reliability and safety.

What types of testing are involved in safety-critical systems?

Common types of testing include unit testing, integration testing, system testing, and acceptance testing, often with a focus on fault tolerance.

How do you ensure compliance with safety standards?

Compliance is ensured by following established safety standards like ISO 26262 for automotive systems or DO-178C for avionics, along with thorough documentation and audits.

Can you give examples of safety-critical systems?

Examples include medical devices, automotive control systems, aerospace systems, and nuclear power plant controls.

What are the challenges in testing these systems?

Challenges include the complexity of systems, the need for extensive documentation, and the difficulty in simulating real-world failure scenarios.