The FSM engineer certification was established by the Automotive, Software and Information Technology department of TUV Rheinland. The certification is based on the internationally recognized safety standards IEC 61508 and IEC 61511.
In order to obtain FSM certification, a candidate is required to attend a training course and pass a final exam based on her knowledge of safety instrumented systems, hardware and software design, and the functional safety of machinery. Applicants for certification must hold a university degree or relevant work experience of between three and five years.
FSM certification is initially accredited for five years with each certificate holder applying for an extension of certification after the period is completed. To obtain an extended certificate each candidate must obtain a letter from his employer stating his continued work and knowledge of a specified engineering field or complete a form stating his employment duties and areas of responsibility.