Accurate Terminology and Uniform Methodology for Risk-Based EMC Engineering

Complying with the harmonized standards, that is, the principally applied rule-based electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) approach, does not always ensure EMC in practice. It is also just a presumption of conformity with the Essential Requirements, as stated in the European Directive for EMC. There is a need for a robust and durable methodology that accounts for factors which are not covered by current EMC standards: the risk-based EMC approach. The term “risk-based EMC” along with the associated terminology is commonly interpreted differently by manufacturers, technicians, and users. This letter clarifies this often misused terminology. First, a comparison between the so-far implemented rule-based EMC approach and the up-and-coming risk-based EMC approach is made. Then, the application of risk-based EMC via a risk management-based methodology is proposed. The goal of this research is to provide an overview on the need of risk-based EMC, list the so-far used (or misused) terminology, and create a common platform of risk management-based methodology, which will act as a guidance tool for EMC engineers when it comes to clear and consistent communication and application of EMC engineering.