Project FUNCTIONARY: A paradigm shift in functional safety to strengthen the future of the chemical and life sciences industry in Flanders

Functional safety is essential to ensure that industrial systems, equipment, and processes operate safely, thereby minimizing risks to people, the environment, equipment and businesses.

The right moment

FUNCTIONARY comes at a crucial time. The chemical cluster in Flanders faces increasing competition, regulatory burden and operational challenges. By rethinking the way functional safety is implemented and introducing a much-needed competitive edge to it, FUNCTIONARY aims to ensure that Flemish chemical and life science companies remain at the forefront of global industrial safety, security and competitiveness. 

This innovation project will not only enhance the process and functional safety but also help reduce costly shutdowns, possible systematic failures and maintenance inefficiencies. The project is particularly timely, as it also supports the chemical and life sciences industry in adapting to the increased demands of cybersecurity.

Competitive, sustainable and resilient

This project aims to challenge the existing train of thought regarding functional safety by developing an innovative methodology, integrating a performance- and technology-based approach to it. This new method aims to further improve the safe operations of the Flemish chemical and life sciences industry to remain competitive. 

By embedding a science-based, technology-driven approach to process safety and functional safety, FUNCTIONARY will support companies in maintaining their 'license to operate' while strengthening the leadership of Flanders in competitive, sustainable and resilient chemical and life science manufacturing.

FUNCTIONARY is a project enabled by Catalisti, the non-profit innovation cluster of the chemical and plastics industry in Flanders, and supported by VLAIO, the Flemish agency for innovation and entrepreneurship. The project is supported by essenscia, the Belgian federation for the chemical and life sciences Industry, key Industry stakeholders and the universities of Antwerp, Ghent and Leuven.

The project runs for 24 months and started on January 1, 2025.

Industry voices - quotes

BASF Antwerpen: “FUNCTIONARY is not just about compliance—it’s about enhancing functional safety and introducing a competitive edge to it. By innovating functional safety, we can significantly reduce downtime, improve process safety, cybersecurity and operability and optimize resource allocation. FUNCTIONARY will strengthen the position of the Flemish chemical and life sciences industry as a global leader in operations, safety, efficiency and sustainability. FUNCTIONARY’s success is bolstered by the diversity, strength, experience and knowledge within its consortium partners from the industrial and the academic side.” (Jan Luyts, Functional Safety Expert of BASF Antwerpen)

Catalisti: “Innovation is the key to maintaining Flanders' leadership in the chemical and plastics sector, and beyond. FUNCTIONARY is a prime example of how collaborative research and industrial engagement can create lasting impact. This project fosters cross-sector knowledge exchange, accelerates the adoption of process and functional safety solutions, and positions our industry at the forefront of global process innovation.” (Tine Schaerlaekens, General director of Catalisti)

essenscia: “Flanders' chemical and life sciences industry must stay ahead of global trends, and FUNCTIONARY is a critical step in that direction. This project is more than a safety upgrade; it’s an industry-wide transformation that strengthens our entire ecosystem. By optimizing process safety and functional safety, we strive for increased productivity and the highest safety standards to maintain the frontrunner status of the Flemish chemical and life sciences sector.” (Geert Boogaerts, Director Safety & Sustainability of essenscia)