When we think about particle accelerators, we often picture vast scientific facilities probing the mysteries of the universe. But these powerful machines—and the principles behind them—are also at the heart of life-saving medical technologies. From cancer treatment to diagnostic imaging, particle accelerator engineering plays a vital role in modern healthcare. And at the core of all this innovation is something that doesn’t always get the spotlight: functional safety.
Functional safety is about making sure that systems behave predictably and safely, even when things go wrong. In environments where high-energy beams, magnetic fields, and complex control systems are in play, that’s not just important—it’s essential.
The Hidden Complexity Behind Everyday Treatments
Take linear accelerators (linacs), for example. These are the workhorses of radiotherapy, delivering targeted radiation to treat cancer. On the surface, they might seem like just another piece of hospital equipment. But behind the scenes, they’re incredibly sophisticated machines that rely on precise coordination between hardware, software, and human operators.
If a sensor fails, a software glitch occurs, or a network is compromised, the consequences could be serious. That’s where functional safety comes in. It ensures that even in the face of faults or failures, the system can detect the issue, respond appropriately, and keep patients safe.
Safety in a Connected World
As medical devices become more connected—sharing data across hospital networks, receiving remote updates, and integrating with imaging systems—new challenges emerge. Cybersecurity is now a key part of the safety conversation. A vulnerability in a linac’s software isn’t just an IT issue; it’s a potential safety risk.
This is especially true for newer technologies like MR-Linacs, which combine real-time MRI imaging with radiation delivery. These systems offer incredible precision, but they also demand a new level of coordination and safety assurance. Engineers must account for everything from magnetic interference to patient movement, all while ensuring the system remains fail-safe.
Learning from the Accelerator World
Interestingly, many of the safety principles used in medical technology have their roots in particle physics. Cyclotrons, for instance, are used both in research and in hospitals to produce medical
isotopes. They operate at high energies and require robust safety systems to manage radiation, magnetic fields, and beam control.
In both research and clinical settings, the goal is the same: to build systems that are not only effective but also inherently safe. That means designing with redundancy, testing for failure scenarios, and constantly evolving standards to keep pace with new technologies.
A Chance to Go Behind the Scenes
If you’re working in this space—or just curious about how these systems are built and maintained—there’s an opportunity coming up that might interest you.
On 17 September 2025, the Particle Accelerator Engineering Network is hosting a Functional Safety Day at Elekta’s headquarters in Crawley, UK. It’s a full-day event focused on the real-world challenges and innovations in functional safety, particularly in the context of medical accelerators.
The morning will feature talks from engineers at STFC, Siemens Healthineers, and Vision RT, covering topics like cybersecurity in linac systems and safety protocols in cyclotron technology. These aren’t abstract discussions—they’re grounded in the day-to-day realities of designing and operating complex systems.
In the afternoon, attendees will get a rare behind-the-scenes tour of Elekta’s facilities. That includes a look at how radiotherapy machines are built, a visit to the Unity shelters where the MR-Linac system is developed, and a walkthrough of the company’s product showcase suite.
It’s a chance to see how functional safety is applied in practice—from the factory floor to the treatment room.
Why It’s Worth Paying Attention
Whether you’re an engineer, a researcher, or a student, understanding functional safety isn’t just about compliance—it’s about building better, more resilient systems. It’s about anticipating the unexpected and designing with care, especially when people’s health and lives are on the line.
Events like Functional Safety Day offer more than just technical insights. They’re a space to connect with others who are tackling the same challenges, to share ideas, and to think about where the field is heading next.
And if you’re working toward professional development goals, attending also counts toward your CPD hours.
If you'd like to attend the upcoming Functional Safety Day event, spaces are limited so make sure to book your place today!