EN ISO 13849-1 sets out six basic steps to constructing a fully compliant machine. For example, a risk assessment has to be carried out during the design phase so that preventive measures can be introduced to counteract any identified risks. 

If these measures are not introduced during the design stage, then these must be integrated into the control technology and recorded in writing in the safety functions specification.

A Performance Level (PL) is defined from each risk assessment, which then has to be met during the inspection after the safety functions have been implemented: the Performance Level actually achieved must be at least the same or greater than the level determined by the risk assessment.