What are some of the characteristics of safety software?
Safety software needs to exhibit a greater reliability than software that does not have a safety role. In order to meet the safety requirements, it must exhibit the following characteristics:

• Operational/Functional Requirements: The software must support the existing hardware controls to facilitate the operation of the device without causing failures initiated by the software.
• Safety Requirements: The software must be able to detect and deal with possible failures in the software, electronics or microprocessor.

How long does the evaluation take?
CSA International estimates that an evaluation will be complete within approximately 60 days of receiving the complete set of software information as required by the applicable standard.

In a situation where minor modifications were made to the software since the last submission, is a complete evaluation required for the new product?
A complete evaluation will be required if the software (or hardware) modifications have or could affect the safety of the product. After CSA International receives the products' updated information from the customer, a decision will be made as to the extent of the required evaluation. In this case, all details of the modifications and the reasons for the modifications are to be included by the manufacturer.

My product was certified three years ago but it now needs to have a software evaluation. Can you please clarify the reason for this requirement?
Standards are now being adopted in Canada and the US for new Software requirements. Software differs from hardware, therefore the software portion of the product must also be evaluated.

If the current software design is not adequate to meet the applicable standard, how should I proceed?
You may submit a set of your current product documents to CSA International for an assessment. Under a special assessment project, CSA International will prepare a "Findings Letter," identifying any shortcomings of the submitted design against the applicable standard. Suggestions regarding possible modifications will not be provided.