scope:

This document specifies requirements for the design, construction and testing of non-contact electro-sensitive protective equipment (ESPE) designed specifically to detect persons as part of a safety-related system, employing vision-based protective devices (VBPDs) using reference pattern techniques (VBPDPP) for the sensing function. Special attention is directed to features which ensure that an appropriate safety-related performance is achieved. An ESPE can include optional safety-related functions, the requirements for which are given in Annex A of IEC 61496-1:2020 and this document. NOTE - "Non-contact" means that physical contact is not required for sensing. Where this document does not contain all necessary provisions, then IEC/TS 62998-1 applies. It is also possible, for those aspects not considered in this document, to use provisions from IEC/TS 62998-1 additionally. This document does not specify the dimensions or configurations of the detection zone and its disposition in relation to hazardous parts for any particular application, nor what constitutes a hazardous state of any machine. It is restricted to the functioning of the ESPE and how it interfaces with the machine.