When data drives decisions, data errors can cause harm.
Modern systems increasingly rely on data to make safety-critical decisions. A wrong value, an out-of-date map or a misused dataset can lead to accidents just as surely as faulty software or hardware. Several real incidents have already had data as a major cause, and the risk grows as systems become more connected, more autonomous and more reliant on artificial intelligence.
Our approach
We follow the cross-sector Data Safety Guidance published by the Safety-Critical Systems Club's Data Safety Initiative Working Group, and help organisations put it into practice through consultancy, training and tools.
RADISH: Risk Assessor for Data Integrity and Safety Hazards
Our web-based tool for managing the data safety of a project. It helps engineers:
- record each data artefact and its safety-relevant properties
- assess its risk and calculate its assurance level
- see suggested ways to reduce that risk, based on the guidance
- keep justifications that build into a Data Safety Case
Two versions are available: a general version for any industry, and one adapted for healthcare, developed with Innovate UK funding.
Downloads
Training
We run workshops on data safety, including sessions at the SCSC Safety-Critical Systems Symposium and joint events with the NHS (PDF). For more about data safety, visit data-safety.tech or email data-safety@mca-ltd.com.