The main objective of this course is to give engineers, professionals and specialists involved in safety-related systems the opportunity to learn the fundamentals of functional safety and the requirements of the functional safety standard IEC 61508. A second objective is to give anybody attending the course the opportunity to certify their knowledge through an exam.
Master IEC 61508 functional safety across E/E/PE systems — from principles to certification.
Turn the “mother standard” of functional safety into practical, auditable work. In 4 intensive days you connect requirements, lifecycle, hardware, and documentation — and on Day 5 you sit your exam and certification options.
Training runs over 4 days, with the exam on Day 5. Choose the format that fits you best.
| Dates | Modality | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 9–12 March 2026 | Live Online | MS Teams |
| 8–11 June 2026 | In-Person | To be announced |
Professionals who need to understand and apply IEC 61508 in real projects, including:
If IEC 61508 appears in your contracts, audits, or product requirements, this program is designed for you.
4 days of focused training. Day 5 exam. One clear path from learning to certification.
You choose your preferred format — Both the Live Online or In-Person format, follow the same proven structure and content.
You receive digital materials, exercises, and post-course access to updates, so you can revisit key topics when preparing for audits or new projects.
| Option | Description |
|---|---|
| IEC 61508 Training Only |
4 days of IEC 61508 training (Live Online or In-Person), no exam Ideal if you need a deep understanding of IEC 61508 but your formal certification is handled internally or by your organisation. |
| Add Exam + Specialist Certificate |
Includes training plus the Risknowlogy exam on Day 5 and recognised FS Specialist or FS Specialist with Distinction certificate (≥60% / ≥85%). You also receive your Safety Passport®, linking your achievement to a globally recognised functional safety profile. |
| Add TÜV Certificate |
Built for professionals who want maximum external recognition:
Best suited for professionals who want maximum international recognition. |
| Add Professional, Expert, or Master Functional Safety Certificate |
For those really serious about their functional safety career and required recognition. This is the ultimate upgrade path to the Risknowlogy Field Professional, Expert, or Master Functional Safety through experience review and case work. This certificate on is based on hours of experience (40+, 1500+, 3000+ hours). And this option is the best combo deal available.
This is the ultimate choice for those that want to excel their career in functional safety. |
Complete the training and exam to earn your FS Specialist or FS Specialist with Distinction certificate in IEC 61508 functional safety. Your certificate is recognised worldwide and linked to your Safety Passport®.
For some roles, a TÜV stamp is a requirement. This course prepares you for and can be combined with TÜV certificates such as:
Ready to take it further? Add Field Certification. You can become a professional, expert or master in the field of functional safety according to IEC 61508. This is not a knowledge exam, this is proven experience in the field.
Dr. Michel Houtermans — Founder, Lead Instructor & Functional Safety Expert, Risknowlogy.
Michel brings examples from real IEC 61508 projects, assessments, and audits — so you see how the standard is applied in practice, not just on paper.
"It was a very educational course and hope to really enjoy the benefits of this in the future. The trainer was very competent and knows what he is talking about. Every colleague should follow this course, if only it was to understand FSM better." - M. de Kok, Rütgers Resins, Netherlands
"The subject is both interesting and important. I think during this course we didn't dive too deep into specific numbers and such, and instead got a very good overall understanding of the subject. Therefore I think that the focus of the material and teaching was excellent, as learning and remembering all numbers and specifics is in my opinion not time well spent. Instead it's important to know what do they mean, why do they exist and if the exact numbers are needed, then one can look up the standard. The course was excellent! " - Justus Hyytiäinen, Finland
"Really positive learning experience. Lecturer has great skills of teach the most essential issues with practical examples. Also the atmosphere during the course was inspiring and positive. During one week it is possible to learn effectively the most important aspects of IEC 61508." - Anonymous, Finland
"I thought the notes were excellent. I feel like it really covered all bases. Overall excellent course and very enjoyable. The mock exam is very useful." - David Horgan, Ireland
What’s the difference between Self-Study, Live Online, and In-Person?
Risknowlogy offers all three learning modes across its portfolio. For this IEC 61508 Certification program, the primary delivery is Live Online and In-Person:
If you are interested in a self-study version, contact us to discuss corporate or customised options.
How long do I have access?
You keep access to the digital training materials and selected resources after the course. The exam for this program is scheduled on Day 5 directly after the 4 training days. If you cannot attend the exam session, contact Risknowlogy to discuss rescheduling options.
Can I cancel and get a refund?
Yes, standard Risknowlogy terms apply:
After those points, you can typically move your seat to a later edition or transfer it to a colleague (subject to availability).
When can I take the exam?
The primary exam session is on Day 5, immediately after the training. This covers the Risknowlogy FS Specialist exam and, where applicable, linked TÜV exam sessions or scheduling.
What if I fail the exam?
One free retake is included for participants who do not pass on the first attempt. Additional paid retakes are available if you want to improve your score or prepare for higher-level certifications.
Do I get a certificate?
Yes. With the exam option you can earn:
Depending on your chosen path, you can also combine this program with TÜV FS Engineer or TÜV FS Professional certificates.
Is there a higher level of certification?
Yes. Every Risknowlogy course includes a pathway to Professional, Expert, and Master levels. For IEC 61508 this means Field Professional, Expert, and Master Functional Safety, based on documented experience, case studies, and assessment.
Will I get a Safety Passport®?
Yes. Every participant who completes a Risknowlogy exam receives a Safety Passport® entry documenting their achievement and level. Your IEC 61508 FS Specialist certificate is linked to this passport.
