Cascading Effects
Section 06: System Safety & Functional Safety
Definition
Failure effects that propagate from one system or function to other systems or functions through physical, electrical, logical, or functional interfaces. A cascading effect occurs when a failure in one system causes degradation or failure in another system that is not directly related, through shared resources (power, cooling, data buses), physical proximity, or functional dependencies. Cascading effects can amplify the severity of a failure condition beyond what would be expected from the initial failure alone.
Where This Shows Up
Identification and prevention of cascading effects is a key part of system safety assessment. The FHA and PSSA must consider not just the direct effects of failures but also their cascading effects on other systems. Interface analysis, FMEA with propagation assessment, and common cause analysis all contribute to identifying cascading effects. Design mitigations include isolation, circuit protection, and interface monitoring.
Primary Sources
Addresses cascading effects as part of the failure effects analysis methodology.
Requires consideration of cascading effects in the system safety assessment.
Related Terms
Need help navigating certification?
Understanding the terminology is the first step. If you need expert guidance on DO-178C, DO-254, ARP4754B, or any aspect of FAA, EASA, or TCCA certification, our team is here to help.