This stage is the systematic verification that the installed system is correctly wired, configured, calibrated, and functionally operational before the process or machine is started with actual production conditions. It is the bridge between installation (Stage 8) and full commissioning (Stage 10).
The distinction between pre-commissioning and commissioning is critical:
Pre-commissioning (this stage): Verifies the system is built and installed correctly — wiring, configuration, calibration, and basic functional response. Performed without the process running, without material in the machine, and without production conditions. The goal is to find and fix construction and installation errors before they become dangerous under actual operating conditions.
Commissioning (Stage 10): Verifies the system performs correctly under actual or simulated production conditions — response times measured with actual machine dynamics, safety functions tested with actual safeguarding devices and actual hazard zone conditions, V&V report completed.
Pre-commissioning catches the errors that should never reach commissioning: wired-to-wrong-terminal, reversed polarity, miscalibrated sensor, incorrect safety PLC configuration, motor running backward, e-stop wired to wrong channel. Discovering these errors during commissioning — with the process running and people in the area — is more expensive, more disruptive, and potentially dangerous.
This stage also establishes baseline measurements that become the reference for the entire operational life of the machine — initial calibration values, initial proof test response measurements, and initial safety function verification records. These baselines are used during Stage 11 (Maintenance) to detect degradation over time.
This stage answers: Is every circuit, device, instrument, and safety function verified to be correctly installed and basically functional before we start the machine with the process?
2. Entry Criteria
This stage begins when Stage 8 (Installation) exit criteria are met.
Required Inputs
Input
Source (Stage)
Why It Matters
Installation record (completed)
Stage 8
Confirms all physical installation is complete, field wiring verified, grounding verified, power supply verified, safety distances measured
Pre-commissioning checklist
Stage 6 (commissioning package)
The structured checklist created by the designer — defines what must be verified and in what order
Safety function verification plan
Stage 5 / Stage 6
Defines test procedures and acceptance criteria for each safety function — pre-commissioning executes the preliminary tests; Stage 10 executes the full tests
Safety function register (finalized)
Stage 3 / Stage 4
Master reference for all safety functions with PLr/SIL targets, safe states, response times, reset behavior
Cause and effect matrix
Stage 6
Reference for verifying that every input produces the correct output response
As-built schematics
Stage 7 / Stage 8
Current revision reflecting all build and field changes — the reference for all wiring verification
As-built interconnection diagrams
Stage 7 / Stage 8
Reference for field wiring verification
I/O assignment table
Stage 5
Reference for I/O verification — maps every physical I/O point to its PLC address and function
Safety PLC program (approved version with CRC/signature)
Stage 7
Reference for verifying that the loaded program matches the approved version
Drive parameter list (approved)
Stage 7
Reference for verifying drive configuration including safety-related parameters
Component-specific commissioning procedures
Manufacturer data
Commissioning procedures for specific safety devices (light curtain alignment, laser scanner zone verification, safety PLC diagnostic checks)
Calibration specifications
Stage 5 / manufacturer data
Calibration range, accuracy, and acceptance criteria for each instrument
Response time analysis
Stage 4
Reference for preliminary response time checks (full measurement in Stage 10)
Build records (from Stage 7)
Stage 7
In-panel functional test results — pre-commissioning builds on these, not repeats them
Available fault current documentation
Stage 8
Confirms SCCR is not exceeded — verified before any energization
Customer site safety requirements
Customer
Permit requirements, LOTO procedures, hot work permits, site-specific PPE, observer/witness requirements
Pre-Commissioning Readiness Verification
Before pre-commissioning activities begin:
Check
Action
Responsible
Installation record complete and signed
Confirm all Stage 8 exit criteria are met
Project engineer
All installation open items resolved or dispositioned
No open items that affect pre-commissioning scope
Project engineer
All as-built documentation is current revision
Schematics, interconnection diagrams, I/O table, cable schedule reflect actual installation
Project engineer / controls designer
All safety devices physically installed and wired
No temporary jumpers or bypasses on safety circuits (unless formally documented and controlled)
Safety engineer / installer
All guards installed
Physical guards in place — pre-commissioning tests require guards to be operated
Mechanical / project engineer
Machine is in a safe state for testing
No material in the machine, no production conditions, hazard zones clear of personnel (except test personnel with controlled access)
Site supervisor / safety engineer
Test equipment available and calibrated
Multimeters, Megger, loop calibrators, stopwatches/timers, phase rotation meter, vibration meter (if applicable) — all with current calibration certificates
Commissioning engineer
Site LOTO and safety procedures in effect
LOTO procedures for controlled energization and de-energization; personnel trained on emergency procedures
Site safety / commissioning engineer
Customer witness requirements identified
If customer requires witness of specific tests, schedule is coordinated
Project manager
3. Standards Influence
Standard
Role at This Stage
Key Requirements
ISO 13849-1:2023 Annex K
Provides a systematic verification checklist for safety-related parts of control systems — the primary tool for pre-commissioning verification of machinery safety functions
Annex K (informative but widely used as the de facto checklist); §8.2 (validation — testing)
ISO 13849-2:2012
Provides fault lists and validation methods for specific technologies (electrical, pneumatic, hydraulic, mechanical) — used to define what faults to test during pre-commissioning
All tables (fault lists by technology)
IEC 62061:2021 §6.6
Verification requirements for SRECS — systematic verification that the hardware and software implementation matches the safety requirements specification
§6.6 (verification), §6.9 (validation)
IEC 61511-1:2016 §15
Pre-startup safety review (PSSR) requirements for SIS — formal review confirming that the SIS is installed, configured, tested, and ready for operation
§15 (SIS installation, commissioning, and validation), §16 (SIS safety validation)
IEC 60204-1:2016 §18
Verification and testing requirements for machine electrical equipment — PE continuity, insulation resistance, voltage withstand, functional tests
§18.1 (general), §18.2 (continuity of PE), §18.3 (insulation resistance), §18.4 (voltage withstand), §18.5 (protection against residual voltage), §18.6 (functional tests)
NFPA 79:2024 §19
Testing requirements for machine electrical equipment — similar to IEC 60204-1 §18
§19.4 (testing)
ISA 84.00.01 / IEC 61511
Pre-startup acceptance test (PSAT) requirements for SIS
Clause 15
IEC 61508-2:2010 §7.9
Hardware integration testing requirements
§7.9
IEC 61326-1:2020
EMC requirements — if EMC testing is required at the installation site (typically for CE marking or if EMC issues are suspected)
All clauses
ISO 13855:2010
Safety distance verification — pre-commissioning confirms that the installed safety distances meet the calculations
All clauses
IEC 62046:2018
Verification of muting functions — specific test requirements for muting, blanking, and reduced resolution
All applicable clauses
Manufacturer commissioning procedures
Each safety device manufacturer provides commissioning and verification procedures specific to their product — these are normative for the device’s PL/SIL certification
Per device
4. Engineering Activities
4.1 Pre-Commissioning Sequence
The recommended sequence ensures that basic electrical integrity is confirmed before functional testing, and non-safety functions are verified before safety functions (so that the machine can be controlled during safety testing):
Phase 1: ELECTRICAL VERIFICATION (No power applied)
│
├── Step 1: Visual inspection
├── Step 2: PE continuity verification (field wiring)
├── Step 3: Insulation resistance test (field wiring)
├── Step 4: Point-to-point spot check (field wiring)
│ ★ GATE: Electrical verification complete — safe to energize ★
│
▼
Phase 2: INITIAL ENERGIZATION (Controlled power-up)
│
├── Step 5: Controlled power-up sequence
├── Step 6: Voltage verification at all distribution points
├── Step 7: Control power verification (24VDC, 120VAC)
├── Step 8: PLC and safety controller boot verification
│ ★ GATE: System energized and stable ★
│
▼
Phase 3: I/O VERIFICATION AND LOOP CHECKS
│
├── Step 9: Standard (non-safety) I/O verification
├── Step 10: Safety I/O verification
├── Step 11: Analog loop checks and calibration
├── Step 12: Communication link verification
│ ★ GATE: All I/O verified ★
│
▼
Phase 4: MOTOR AND ACTUATOR CHECKS
│
├── Step 13: Motor rotation check (bump test)
├── Step 14: Motor protection verification
├── Step 15: Actuator stroke and position verification
├── Step 16: Pneumatic/hydraulic system verification
│ ★ GATE: All drives and actuators verified ★
│
▼
Phase 5: SAFETY FUNCTION VERIFICATION (DRY RUN)
│
├── Step 17: Safety controller configuration verification
├── Step 18: Safety function dry-run testing (each SF)
├── Step 19: ISO 13849-1 Annex K checklist execution
├── Step 20: Muting function verification (if applicable)
├── Step 21: Mode-dependent safety behavior verification
├── Step 22: Diagnostic function verification
│ ★ GATE: All safety functions verified (dry run) ★
│
▼
Phase 6: INSTRUMENT CALIBRATION
│
├── Step 23: Transmitter calibration / verification
├── Step 24: Safety-rated instrument calibration
├── Step 25: Alarm setpoint verification
│ ★ GATE: All instruments calibrated ★
│
▼
Phase 7: BASELINE DOCUMENTATION
│
├── Step 26: Record baseline measurements
├── Step 27: Complete pre-commissioning checklist
├── Step 28: Pre-commissioning review and sign-off
│ ★ GATE: Pre-commissioning complete — ready for Stage 10 ★
4.2 Phase 1: Electrical Verification (No Power)
Step 1: Visual Inspection
Check Item
What to Look For
Field wiring
No visible damage, no loose connections, no missing labels, no wires pinched in enclosure doors or cable glands
Safety devices
All safety devices installed and undamaged — light curtains, guard switches, e-stops, safety sensors, laser scanners
Guards
All physical guards installed, secure, no gaps
Enclosures
All covers closed, all glands sealed, no foreign objects inside panels
Labels and nameplates
All wire labels, component labels, and panel nameplates present and legible
Cable routing
Safety circuit cables separated from power cables per design; dual-channel separation maintained in field routing
Junction boxes
All covers installed and secured; terminal connections tight; wire identification present
Step 2: PE Continuity Verification (Field Wiring)
Requirement
Method
Acceptance Criteria
PE continuity from every exposed conductive part of the machine to the main PE terminal
Low-resistance ohmmeter (≥ 200mA test current per IEC 60204-1, or ≥ 10A for formal testing)
Note: If PE continuity was measured during installation (Stage 8), pre-commissioning verifies that the measurements are still valid and extends to any points not measured during installation.
Step 3: Insulation Resistance Test (Field Wiring)
Requirement
Method
Acceptance Criteria
Insulation resistance between all power conductors and PE
Megger test at 500VDC (for circuits ≤ 500V)
≥ 1 MΩ
Disconnect all electronic devices before testing
Remove PLC modules, disconnect VFDs, disconnect safety controllers, disconnect power supplies — Megger voltage can damage electronics
Document which devices were disconnected
Test between phases (L1-L2, L1-L3, L2-L3) and each phase to PE
Megger at each point
≥ 1 MΩ per test
If insulation resistance is below 1 MΩ, investigate and correct before energizing. Low insulation resistance indicates damaged insulation, moisture ingress, or contamination.
Step 4: Point-to-Point Spot Check (Field Wiring)
Requirement
Method
Scope
Spot-check field wiring against interconnection diagrams
Continuity check with multimeter
If 100% P2P was performed at Stage 8: spot-check 10-20% of field connections plus 100% of any connections made after Stage 8 P2P check. If 100% P2P was NOT performed at Stage 8: perform 100% P2P now.
100% check of all safety circuit field wiring
Continuity and correct terminal landing verification
Every safety circuit field wire verified — no exceptions
Verify no shorts between channels
Insulation check between Channel A and Channel B conductors of dual-channel safety circuits
No continuity between channels when devices are disconnected
★ GATE: Electrical Verification Complete ★
All Phase 1 checks must pass before power is applied. Any failure must be investigated and corrected.
4.3 Phase 2: Initial Energization
Step 5: Controlled Power-Up Sequence
Step
Action
Verification
1
Ensure all output devices are in safe state (motor disconnects open, pneumatics vented, hydraulics depressurized)
Physical verification
2
All personnel clear of machine hazard zones
Verbal confirmation; visual check
3
Close main disconnect
No trips, no arcing, no abnormal sounds
4
Measure voltage at main bus
Correct voltage, correct phase rotation
5
Energize control transformer / 24VDC power supply
Measure output voltage — within specification
6
Verify PLC boots correctly
RUN indicators, no fault LEDs, correct mode
7
Verify safety controller boots correctly
Status LEDs per manufacturer documentation; safety controller enters expected startup state
8
Verify HMI boots correctly
Home screen displays; communication with PLC established
Step 6-8: Voltage and System Verification
Check
Method
Acceptance Criteria
Voltage at every power distribution point
Multimeter measurement
Within ±10% of nominal (or per component specification)
24VDC at safety I/O power rail
Multimeter measurement
24VDC ±10% (typical 21.6–26.4VDC) — some safety controllers require tighter range
24VDC at remote I/O cabinets
Multimeter measurement at the furthest point
Within specification after cable voltage drop
Safety controller status
LED indicators, diagnostic screen
No faults; correct configuration loaded; correct firmware version
Safety PLC program CRC/signature
Read from safety controller
Matches approved CRC/signature from Stage 7
★ GATE: System Energized and Stable ★
4.4 Phase 3: I/O Verification and Loop Checks
Step 9: Standard (Non-Safety) Digital I/O Verification
Activity
Method
Documentation
Verify each digital input
Activate each input device (push button, limit switch, proximity sensor, etc.); observe PLC input status (via PLC programming software or HMI diagnostic screen)
Input device tag matches I/O assignment table; output device tag matches I/O assignment table
Any mismatch → wiring error or programming error — investigate and correct
Step 10: Safety I/O Verification
Safety I/O verification requires additional rigor because errors in safety I/O can directly affect safety function integrity.
Activity
Method
Documentation
Verify each safety input (Channel A and Channel B independently)
Activate safety device; verify safety controller registers correct state on both channels; verify discrepancy detection works (activate one channel only — controller should detect mismatch)
Record: SF-ID, I/O address (CH A and CH B), device tag, activated state, both channels respond correctly, discrepancy detection confirmed
Verify each safety output
Command safety output from safety controller; verify physical output device (contactor, valve) activates and deactivates correctly
With safety output energized: verify feedback input reads “healthy.” Simulate contactor welding (manually hold contactor in — if safe to do so — or disconnect feedback wire): verify safety controller detects fault
For safety circuits with energy isolation (dump valves, exhaust valves): verify that the safety function correctly vents/dumps pressure when activated
Record: Dump valve response confirmed; pressure drops to safe level within specified time
Leak test
Pressurize system; verify no leaks at connections, fittings, cylinders, valves
Record: System leak-free (or leaks identified and corrected)
★ GATE: All Drives and Actuators Verified ★
4.6 Phase 5: Safety Function Verification (Dry Run)
This is the most important phase of pre-commissioning. Each safety function is tested individually under controlled conditions — without the process running — to verify basic correct operation before full commissioning testing in Stage 10.
Verify output devices de-energize (contactors drop out, valves close/vent, drives disable); verify machine motion stops (or would stop — motors may not be loaded during dry run)
Response
Safety controller processes the demand and commands the safe state
Verify safety controller output status changes; verify safety controller diagnostic shows the demand was recognized
Indication
Safety status is correctly displayed to the operator
Verify HMI shows safety function tripped; verify any safety status pilot lights activate; verify muting lamp (if applicable) is OFF when not muting
Reset
Safety function resets only through the correct procedure
Release/clear the triggering condition; verify machine does NOT restart automatically (unless automatic restart is explicitly designed and justified); press reset button; verify machine can now be restarted
Lockout
Safety function cannot be defeated by the operator
Attempt to restart machine with safety device still in tripped state — verify restart is prevented
Cross-channel
Both channels of dual-channel safety functions operate correctly
Test with both channels active; then test with each channel individually disabled (if safe to do so) — verify safety controller detects single-channel fault
Safety Function Dry-Run Test Record Template
SF-ID
Safety Function
Test Date
Triggering Device Activated
Safe State Achieved?
Correct Outputs De-Energized?
HMI Indication Correct?
Reset Procedure Correct?
Auto-Restart Prevented?
Cross-Channel Test?
Discrepancy Detection?
EDM Test?
Result
Tested By
Witnessed By
SF-01
Guard interlock — operator door
Door opened
Y/N
K1, K2 de-energized
Y/N
Manual reset required, confirmed
Y/N
CH A tested, CH B tested
Discrepancy detected
Simulated K1 weld — detected
PASS/FAIL
SF-02
E-stop — operator station 1
E-stop pressed
Y/N
All safety outputs de-energized
Y/N
E-stop released + reset button required, confirmed
Y/N
CH A tested, CH B tested
Discrepancy detected
Simulated K1 weld — detected
PASS/FAIL
SF-03
Light curtain — infeed
LC beam interrupted
Y/N
K1, K2 de-energized
Y/N
Beam clear + reset (or auto-restart per design)
Y/N
N/A (integral dual-channel)
N/A
Simulated K1 weld — detected
PASS/FAIL
Step 19: ISO 13849-1 Annex K Checklist Execution
Annex K of ISO 13849-1 provides a structured verification checklist. The following is an expanded, practical version:
Section A: General Safety Function Verification
#
Check Item
Method
Acceptance Criteria
SF-ID
Result
A1
Safety function achieves the defined safe state
Functional test
Machine reaches defined safe state per safety function register
A2
Safety function responds to all defined triggering events
Functional test
Each triggering event produces the correct response
A3
Safety function does not produce unintended hazardous conditions when activated
Observation during test
No unexpected motion, no energy release, no hazardous condition created by the safety function itself
A4
Restart after safety function activation requires the defined reset procedure
Functional test
Machine does not restart without the specified reset action
A5
Safety function operates correctly in all defined operating modes
Test in each mode
Correct behavior in automatic, manual, setup, maintenance modes as specified
Section B: Input Device Verification
#
Check Item
Method
Acceptance Criteria
SF-ID
Result
B1
Input device is correct type and model per BOM
Visual inspection
Matches BOM part number
B2
Input device is installed per manufacturer instructions
Visual inspection
Mounting, orientation, alignment per manufacturer guide
B3
Input device NC contacts used (where specified)
Schematic comparison + functional test
Wire break / disconnection detected as safety demand
B4
Dual-channel inputs both functional
Individual channel test
Both channels respond; discrepancy detection works
B5
Input device environmental suitability
Visual assessment
Device rated for actual conditions (temperature, dust, moisture, vibration)
Section C: Logic Solver Verification
#
Check Item
Method
Acceptance Criteria
SF-ID
Result
C1
Safety controller is correct type and model per BOM
Visual inspection
Matches BOM part number
C2
Safety controller firmware version is correct
Read from controller
Matches approved version
C3
Safety program CRC/signature matches approved version
Read from controller
Exact match
C4
Safety controller configuration parameters are correct
Parameter comparison
All parameters match approved values
C5
No forced I/O or bypassed functions
Status check
Zero forces, zero bypasses
C6
Diagnostic function detects channel discrepancy
Simulate single-channel fault
Controller enters fault state or safe state within discrepancy time
C7
Watchdog / self-monitoring is functional
Observe status LEDs; check diagnostic log
No watchdog errors; self-test passes
Section D: Output Device Verification
#
Check Item
Method
Acceptance Criteria
SF-ID
Result
D1
Output devices are correct type and model per BOM
Visual inspection
Match BOM part numbers
D2
Output devices achieve safe state when de-energized
Reference standard must have traceable calibration certificate
As-found and as-left values recorded
Record the “as-found” reading (before any adjustment) and the “as-left” reading (after calibration) — the as-found value becomes the baseline for future proof tests
Trip point verification
For safety instruments with trip points (pressure switches, temperature switches): verify trip point and reset point
Response time measurement (if specified)
Some safety instruments have response time requirements — measure and record
Calibration interval established
Document the required calibration interval for each safety instrument — this feeds into Stage 11 maintenance plan
Calibration procedure documented
Procedure must be documented so it can be repeated identically at each calibration interval
Step 25: Alarm Setpoint Verification
Activity
Method
Documentation
Verify all safety-related alarm setpoints
Simulate or apply process values at each alarm setpoint
Record: Alarm tag, type (high, low, high-high, etc.), setpoint value, actual activation value, correct (yes/no)
Verify alarm priority and response
Confirm alarm displays on HMI with correct priority level and message
If alarm triggers an automatic action (shutdown, interlock), verify the action occurs
Record: Alarm tag, expected action, actual action confirmed
★ GATE: All Instruments Calibrated ★
4.8 Phase 7: Baseline Documentation
Step 26: Record Baseline Measurements
These baselines become the reference for the life of the machine — used during proof testing (Stage 11) to detect degradation:
Baseline Measurement
Method
Why It Matters
Safety function response time (preliminary)
Stopwatch or timer measurement of time from safety device activation to output device de-energization (contactor dropout, valve closure)
Baseline for comparison during proof testing; preliminary check against response time requirement (formal measurement with calibrated instruments in Stage 10)
Baseline for detecting misalignment during operation
Motor current (no-load and loaded if possible)
Clamp ammeter measurement
Baseline for detecting bearing wear, coupling misalignment, or load changes
Vibration levels (if specified)
Vibration meter at motor/bearing locations
Baseline for predictive maintenance
Instrument as-left calibration values
From calibration records
Baseline for detecting transmitter drift at next calibration
Valve stroke times (safety valves)
Timed measurement of open-to-close and close-to-open
Baseline for detecting valve degradation (increasing stroke time indicates wear or buildup)
Safety controller diagnostic status
Download diagnostic buffer/log
Clean baseline — any future diagnostics can be compared to this initial state
Contactor operation count (if available)
Read from safety controller or contactor counter
Starting count for B10d life calculation
Supply voltage at safety devices
Multimeter measurement at the furthest safety device
Baseline for detecting voltage degradation (connector corrosion, cable degradation)
Step 27: Complete Pre-Commissioning Checklist
Compile all records from Phases 1–6 into the pre-commissioning checklist document:
Section
Content
Status
Electrical verification
PE continuity, insulation resistance, P2P check records
Complete / open items
I/O verification
Standard I/O, safety I/O, analog loops, communications
Complete / open items
Motor and actuator checks
Rotation, protection settings, actuator operation
Complete / open items
Safety function dry-run tests
Individual SF test records per template
Complete / open items
Annex K checklist
Completed checklist sections A–F
Complete / open items
Muting verification (if applicable)
Muting test records
Complete / open items / N/A
Mode-dependent behavior
Mode test records
Complete / open items
Diagnostic verification
Diagnostic test records
Complete / open items
Instrument calibration
Calibration records
Complete / open items
Baseline measurements
Baseline measurement records
Complete / open items
Step 28: Pre-Commissioning Review and Sign-Off
Activity
Detail
Pre-commissioning review meeting
Project engineer, safety engineer, commissioning engineer (and customer if required) review all pre-commissioning records; identify any open items; assess readiness for Stage 10
Open item disposition
All open items classified: (1) must be closed before Stage 10, (2) can be closed during Stage 10, or (3) deferred to post-commissioning with justification and risk acceptance
Sign-off
Pre-commissioning checklist signed by commissioning engineer, safety engineer, and project engineer (and customer if required)
★ GATE: Pre-Commissioning Complete — Ready for Stage 10 ★
5. Pre-Startup Safety Review (PSSR) — Process Safety Applications
For process safety applications governed by IEC 61511, a formal Pre-Startup Safety Review (PSSR) is required before the process is started. The PSSR is broader than pre-commissioning — it verifies organizational and procedural readiness in addition to technical readiness.
5.1 PSSR Checklist
#
PSSR Item
Verification
Status
1
Construction and equipment are in accordance with design specifications
Installation record, as-built documentation
2
Safety, operating, maintenance, and emergency procedures are in place
Documentation package review
3
Process hazard analysis (PHA) recommendations have been resolved
PHA action item tracker
4
Training of operating and maintenance personnel has been completed
Training records
5
SIS has been inspected, tested, and is operational
Pre-commissioning records (this stage)
6
All safety instrumented functions (SIFs) have been validated
SIF validation records (Stage 10 will complete this)
7
Management of change requirements have been met (if applicable)
MOC records
8
Adequate process safety information is available
PSI documentation review
9
All pre-startup action items from the PSSR are resolved
PSSR action item tracker
10
PSSR team sign-off
PSSR team signatures
5.2 PSSR Team
Role
Responsibility
Process engineer
Confirms process design and operating procedures are correct
Safety / SIS engineer
Confirms SIS installation, configuration, and testing are complete
Operations representative
Confirms operating procedures are in place and operators are trained
Maintenance representative
Confirms maintenance procedures are in place and maintainers are trained
HSE representative
Confirms safety procedures, emergency procedures, and regulatory requirements are met
PSSR must be completed and signed before the process is started. This is a regulatory requirement under OSHA PSM (29 CFR 1910.119) and IEC 61511.
6. Key Deliverables
#
Deliverable
Description
1
Pre-commissioning checklist (completed)
Master checklist with all phases completed, all sections signed off, all open items dispositioned
2
Electrical verification records
PE continuity measurements, insulation resistance results, P2P spot check records
3
I/O verification records
Standard I/O, safety I/O (both channels), analog loops, communication links — all verified and documented
4
Safety function dry-run test records
Individual test record for each safety function per the template in Section 4.6
5
ISO 13849-1 Annex K checklist (completed)
All sections A–F completed for each safety function
6
Muting function test records
If applicable — complete muting verification per IEC 62046
7
Mode-dependent behavior test records
Safety function behavior verified in each operating mode
8
Diagnostic function test records
All diagnostic functions verified — single-channel fault, EDM, wire break, communication loss, ground fault
Standard and safety-rated instrument calibration — as-found and as-left values, calibrator reference, pass/fail
11
Baseline measurement records
All baseline measurements per Section 4.8 Step 26
12
Safety controller configuration verification record
CRC/signature match, parameter verification, firmware version confirmation, zero forces/bypasses confirmed
13
Drive safety parameter verification record
Safety-related drive parameters verified against approved list
14
PSSR checklist (if process safety application)
Completed PSSR per Section 5
15
Open item list
Any items not resolved during pre-commissioning — with classification, owner, target date, and impact on Stage 10
16
Pre-commissioning photographs
Photographs of safety device installations, alignment verification, test setups — evidence of pre-commissioning activities
17
Updated as-built documentation
Any additional as-built changes discovered during pre-commissioning incorporated into documentation
18
Test equipment calibration records
Calibration certificates for all test instruments used during pre-commissioning
7. Exit Criteria — Gate Review
This stage is complete when all of the following are true:
#
Criterion
Evidence
1
PE continuity verified ≤ 0.1Ω at all field measurement points
Electrical verification records
2
Insulation resistance ≥ 1 MΩ on all field wiring circuits
Electrical verification records
3
100% of safety circuit field wiring verified point-to-point
P2P check records
4
All standard I/O verified functional with correct addressing
I/O verification records
5
All safety I/O verified functional — both channels, discrepancy detection confirmed, EDM confirmed
Safety I/O verification records
6
All analog loops checked and instruments calibrated within tolerance
Calibration records
7
All communication links verified including failsafe behavior on communication loss
Communication verification records
8
All motors verified for correct rotation and protection settings
Motor check records
9
All actuators verified for correct operation and safe-state behavior
Actuator check records
10
Safety PLC program CRC/signature matches approved version; zero forces/bypasses confirmed
Configuration verification record
11
All drive safety parameters verified against approved list
Drive parameter verification record
12
Every safety function dry-run tested with triggering, safe state, reset, lockout, cross-channel, and EDM verified
Safety function dry-run test records — all PASS
13
ISO 13849-1 Annex K checklist completed for all safety functions
Completed Annex K checklist — all items PASS
14
Muting functions verified per IEC 62046 (if applicable)
Muting test records — all PASS
15
Mode-dependent safety behavior verified in all operating modes
Mode test records — all PASS
16
All diagnostic functions verified (single-channel fault, EDM, wire break, communication loss)
Diagnostic test records — all PASS
17
Baseline measurements recorded
Baseline measurement records
18
PSSR completed and signed (if process safety application)
Completed PSSR checklist
19
All open items dispositioned — items that must close before Stage 10 are closed; items deferred to Stage 10 are documented and accepted
Open item list reviewed and signed
20
Pre-commissioning checklist completed and signed by commissioning engineer, safety engineer, and project engineer
Signed pre-commissioning checklist
21
Test equipment calibration records on file
Calibration certificates
If any safety function fails its dry-run test, the failure must be investigated and corrected before Stage 10. Do not proceed to commissioning with known safety function failures — they will not resolve themselves under production conditions.
8. Roles and Responsibilities at This Stage
Role
Responsibility
Commissioning Engineer
Owns this stage — executes pre-commissioning checklist, performs I/O verification, motor checks, safety function dry-run tests, compiles records, signs off on checklist
Safety / Controls Engineer
Verifies safety controller configuration (CRC match, parameters, zero forces); reviews and approves safety function test results; verifies Annex K checklist; assesses any deviations or failures for safety impact
Instrument Technician
Performs instrument calibration, loop checks, and alarm setpoint verification; produces calibration records
Electrical / Controls Designer
Supports pre-commissioning with design clarification; updates as-built documentation for any changes discovered
PLC Programmer
Supports I/O verification and functional testing; resolves any programming issues discovered during testing; verifies safety PLC program integrity
Mechanical / Process Engineer
Supports motor rotation verification, actuator checks, pneumatic/hydraulic system verification; provides process context for instrument calibration ranges and alarm setpoints
Project Engineer
Coordinates pre-commissioning schedule; manages open items; coordinates with customer for witness requirements
Customer Representative
Witnesses pre-commissioning activities (if contractually required); participates in PSSR (if process safety); accepts pre-commissioning results
Customer Operations / Maintenance
May observe or participate in pre-commissioning to gain familiarity with the system before taking ownership at handover
9. Common Mistakes at This Stage
Mistake
Consequence
How to Avoid
Skipping pre-commissioning and going straight to commissioning
Wiring errors, miscalibrated instruments, and incorrect configurations discovered under production conditions — more dangerous, more expensive, more disruptive to fix
Mandatory pre-commissioning gate before Stage 10; project schedule must allocate time for this stage
Testing safety functions with jumpers or bypasses instead of actual safety devices
Verifies the logic but not the physical input device, wiring, and channel integrity; jumpers may be left in place
Test with actual safety devices; if jumpers are absolutely necessary for a specific test, formally document them and have a mandatory removal verification step
Not verifying both channels of dual-channel safety inputs independently
One channel may be wired incorrectly but the dual-channel test passes because the other channel works
Test each channel independently — disconnect one at a time and verify the safety controller detects the single-channel loss
Not verifying EDM (contactor feedback)
Contactor welding goes undetected during operation; PL/SIL is lower than calculated
Simulate contactor welding for each monitored output; verify safety controller detects the fault and prevents restart
Not verifying diagnostic discrepancy time
Safety controller may detect a channel discrepancy but take longer than the specified time — potentially allowing a dangerous condition to persist
Measure discrepancy detection time; compare to specification
Calibrating instruments without recording as-found values
Cannot determine if the instrument drifted since factory calibration or since last calibration; proof test effectiveness cannot be assessed
Always record as-found values before making any adjustments
Not verifying safety function behavior during mode transitions
Safety function may work correctly in automatic mode but fail to activate (or fail to deactivate) when switching to manual or setup mode
Test every mode transition; verify safety system re-evaluates safety state on mode change
Not verifying communication loss failsafe behavior
Safety network cable failure during operation could leave the machine in an uncontrolled state if failsafe is not properly configured
Disconnect safety network cable during testing; verify safe state is achieved within specified time
Not verifying safe state on loss of 24VDC power
Power supply failure could leave safety outputs in an indeterminate state
Remove 24VDC; verify all safety outputs go to safe state
Pre-commissioning records are incomplete or unsigned
Commissioning team cannot confirm what was tested; auditors find gaps in the verification chain; liability exposure
Complete every field in the checklist; sign every section; document every result — even if the result is “not applicable”
Not recording baseline measurements
No reference point for future proof testing; degradation cannot be detected
Mandatory baseline measurement step before closing pre-commissioning
Using uncalibrated test equipment
Measurements may be inaccurate; calibration records and pre-commissioning results are invalid
Verify all test equipment has current calibration certificates before use; record calibration certificate numbers
Not testing e-stops at every station
E-stop at one station may work but e-stop at another station may be wired incorrectly
Test every e-stop device at every station individually
Not verifying alarm setpoints for safety-related alarms
Alarm may not activate at the correct process value; operator may not receive warning in time
Simulate process values at each alarm setpoint; verify alarm activates at the correct value
10. Relationship to Adjacent Stages
┌──────────────────────────────────────┐
│ STAGE 8: INSTALLATION │
│ │
│ Provides: │
│ • Installed system │
│ • Installation record │
│ • Field wiring verification │
│ • Grounding verification │
│ • Safety distance measurements │
│ • Available fault current doc │
└──────────────────┬───────────────────┘
│
▼
┌──────────────────────────────────────┐
│ STAGE 9: PRE-COMMISSIONING │ ◄── You are here
│ │
│ Produces: │
│ • Pre-commissioning checklist │
│ (completed) │
│ • Safety function dry-run test │
│ records (all PASS) │
│ • Annex K checklist (completed) │
│ • I/O verification records │
│ • Calibration records │
│ • Baseline measurements │
│ • PSSR (if process safety) │
│ │
│ Confirms: │
│ • System is correctly wired │
│ • System is correctly configured │
│ • System is correctly calibrated │
│ • Safety functions basically work │
│ • System is ready for full │
│ commissioning under production │
│ conditions │
└──────────────────┬───────────────────┘
│
▼
┌──────────────────────────────────────┐
│ STAGE 10: COMMISSIONING │
│ │
│ Builds on pre-commissioning: │
│ • Repeats safety function tests │
│ under actual production │
│ conditions (not dry run) │
│ • Measures actual response times │
│ with calibrated instruments │
│ • Verifies safety distances with │
│ actual machine dynamics │
│ • Executes FAT/SAT procedures │
│ • Completes V&V report │
│ • Provides final PL/SIL │
│ verification evidence │
│ │
│ Pre-commissioning results are │
│ INPUT to Stage 10 — not repeated │
│ unless changes were made between │
│ stages │
└──────────────────┬───────────────────┘
│
▼
┌──────────────────────────────────────┐
│ STAGE 11: MAINTENANCE │
│ │
│ Uses baselines from this stage: │
│ • Calibration as-left values │
│ → compared to future proof test │
│ as-found values to detect drift │
│ • Safety function response times │
│ → compared to future measurements │
│ to detect degradation │
│ • Valve stroke times │
│ → compared to future measurements │
│ • Contactor operation counts │
│ → tracked toward B10d limit │
│ • Safety controller diagnostics │
│ → future diagnostics compared to │
│ clean baseline │
└──────────────────────────────────────┘
11. Temporary Bypasses and Overrides During Pre-Commissioning
11.1 Principle
During pre-commissioning, it may be necessary to temporarily bypass or override a safety function to test other parts of the system (e.g., bypassing a guard interlock to test motor rotation with the guard open under controlled conditions). This is permitted only under strict controls.
11.2 Bypass Control Requirements
Requirement
Detail
Documented
Every bypass must be formally documented — which safety function, why, when, who authorized, how long
Authorized
Safety engineer must authorize every bypass
Time-limited
Bypass must have a defined duration; automatic expiration if possible
Compensating measures
Alternative risk control measures must be in place during the bypass (e.g., physical barriers, dedicated observer, reduced speed, restricted access)
Visible indication
Bypass must be visible — warning sign on the machine, HMI indication, physical tag on the bypassed device
Tracked
Bypass log maintained; every active bypass tracked until removed
Verified removal
After the test requiring the bypass is complete, the bypass must be removed and the safety function verified to be fully operational
Final confirmation
Before closing pre-commissioning: verify zero active bypasses; all bypass log entries show “removed and verified”
11.3 Bypass Log Template
Bypass #
SF-ID
Safety Function
Reason for Bypass
Authorized By
Date/Time Applied
Compensating Measures
Expected Duration
Date/Time Removed
Removal Verified By
Safety Function Re-Tested?
BP-001
SF-01
Guard interlock — door
Motor rotation check with guard open
[Safety engineer name]
[Date/time]
Physical barrier across opening; dedicated observer; motor run in jog only
30 minutes
[Date/time]
[Name]
Yes — SF-01 re-tested PASS
12. Templates and Tools
Resource
Purpose
Pre-commissioning master checklist template
Structured checklist with all phases and steps per Section 4.1
Safety function dry-run test record template
Per Section 4.6 — individual test form per safety function
ISO 13849-1 Annex K checklist template
Expanded checklist per Section 4.6 Step 19 — Sections A–F
I/O verification record template
Standard and safety I/O verification form
Analog loop check / calibration record template
Instrument-by-instrument calibration form with as-found and as-left fields
Communication link verification record template
Link-by-link verification form with failsafe test
Motor check record template
Rotation, protection settings, current measurement form
Parameter-by-parameter comparison to approved list
Diagnostic function test record template
Single-channel fault, EDM, wire break, communication loss, ground fault test form
Muting function test record template
Per IEC 62046 requirements
Test equipment calibration log
Record of test instruments used, calibration certificate numbers, and expiration dates
Pre-commissioning review meeting minutes template
Agenda, attendees, open items, readiness decision, sign-off
Trust Boundary — Engineering Judgment Required
This site is a personal-use paraphrase and navigation reference for industrial automation standards.
It is not a substitute for authoritative standards documents, professional engineering judgment, or legal review.
All content is sourced from a local RAG corpus and has not been independently verified against current published editions.
Items marked TO VERIFY have limited or unconfirmed local coverage.
Items marked NOT IN CORPUS are not covered in the local repository.
Do not rely on this site for compliance determinations, safety-critical design decisions, or legal interpretation.