The cover story of the April edition of Automation World was titled “how much integration is right”.  Of course they were covering the highly controversial topic of integrating your control and safety system. 

Many globally recognized experts were quoted in the article, but to spare you the time, please allow me to summarize:

Vendor’s who do NOT offer an integrated solution say your crazy to integrated, those that do suggest there’s savings to be had, and those that consult for a living advise it might be a viable solution, but you’ll need them to evaluate it (ca-ching). 

All this posturing left me frustrated (and I was even quoted in the article).   

So here’s my take on this topic:

1. Integrated systems are certified just like non-integrated systems
2. The standards permit it (ANSI/ISA S 84-2004)
3. Any system can be compromised if NOT properly operated and maintained

Don’t be afraid, you decide.  Maybe your facility is better off with separate and independent systems.  Or, maybe you believe there is some merit (and benefit) to integration.  Remember even the most acknowledged experts can be wrong…. 

"There is not the slightest indication that nuclear energy will ever be obtainable. It would mean that the atom would have to be shattered at will."

- Albert Einstein, 1932