IAF Safety Standard
IAF‐SS v1.0 – Quick Overview Development Process
This page presents the scope, process and requirements of our automotive safety standard.
What is it?
This document establishes a harmonised, globally recognisable benchmark that certifies the intrinsic safety performance of vehicles, safety-critical components and related services.
Why does it matter?
The IAF Safety Standard enables manufacturers and suppliers to demonstrate safety performance independently, giving confidence to consumers and stakeholders, and meeting regulatory and ethical obligations with internationally valid certification.
Scope & Certification Families
| Family | Intended Object | Resulting Mark | Typical Examples |
|---|---|---|---|
| A. Vehicle Safety | Complete motor vehicles (ICE, EV, hybrid, LCV, bus, coach) | IAF Safe Vehicle | IAF-CAP™ tested passenger car; urban e-bus |
| B. Safety-Critical Product | Component, system or software with direct safety impact | IAF Safe Product | HV traction battery pack; airbag ECU |
| C. Safe-Relevant Service | Engineering, testing, maintenance or data services influencing road safety | IAF Safe Service | ADAS calibration centre; crash-test lab |
How does it work?
The standard uses a 7-point evaluation model. Applicants must submit evidence and reports proving compliance. Independent experts review and score each pillar.
| Pillar | Weight | Vehicle Example Evidence | Product / Service Evidence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Crashworthiness | 25% | IAF-CAP™ (Level C and above) , UNECE R94 pass | FEA, sled-test |
| Occupant Protection | 15% | Airbag timing, seat-belt reminders | Dynamic deployment tests |
| Vulnerable Road-User Safety | 10% | Pedestrian AEB, impact tests | Active hood actuator tests |
| Active Safety / ADAS | 15% | ISO 21995 lane-keep | Software/HIL validation |
| Electrical & Fire Safety | 10% | Battery intrusion tests | IP rating, cell tests |
| Functional Safety Process | 15% | ISO 26262 ASIL compliance | FMEDA, safety case |
| Post-Crash & Rescue | 10% | eCall, emergency cut-loop | Documentation availability |
Label Usage
- Vector logos (.svg/.eps) are delivered post-approval.
- Must be used with tier descriptor (Gold/Silver) and certification ID.
- Vehicle badge recommended on left C-pillar.
- Digital use: QR linking to certificate page.
- Misuse results in immediate suspension.
Example Draft Artwork — Safety Standard
The visuals below are draft artwork for demonstration. Final colors, spacing, and minimum-size rules will be defined in the IAF Brand Guidelines.
IAF Safe Vehicle
For certified vehicle models meeting IAF Safety Standard criteria (crashworthiness & ADAS performance).
- Tier (e.g., Platinum/Gold) & Certificate ID visible
- Recommended badge: rear tailgate 45 mm
IAF Safe Product
For certified components/modules (e.g., restraint systems, sensors) conforming to test protocols.
- Includes Tier & Certificate ID
- Packaging/ datasheet placement; min. print width 20 mm
IAF Safe Service
For certified services (e.g., test labs, calibration, ADAS validation services) under accredited processes.
- Displays Tier & Certificate ID
- Use on certificates, reports, facility signage
Application & Assessment Process
- Intake & completeness check (5 days)
- Technical review (2 experts)
- Panel hearing (Q&A)
- Scoring & decision
- Certification issuance
- Annual surveillance, recertification every 3 years
Safety Standard — Timeline & Contact
Committee Draft issued
30-day public comment window opens; focus on crashworthiness, ADAS validation and occupant protection methods.
Pilot testing (lab & field)
2 crash/ADAS labs + 1 OEM. Scope: full-scale crash, sled tests, child restraint checks, ADAS performance & data integrity.
Feature freeze & change control
Only critical changes accepted; editorial improvements continue. Final ballot package assembled.
Target final publication
Safety Standard v1.0 released with conformance matrix & test protocol pack. Optional Global Safety Index (beta) announced.
Implementation guidance
Assessor training modules, practitioner’s guide, sample evidence pack; v1.1 checklist (post-release errata).