This part of the 61784-3 series specifies a safety communication layer (services and protocol) based on CPF 2 of IEC 61784-1, IEC 61784-2 and IEC 61158 Type 2. It identifies the principles for functional safety communications defined in IEC 61784-3 that are relevant for this safety communication layer. This part defines mechanisms for the transmission of safety-relevant messages among participants within a distributed network using fieldbus technology in accordance with the requirements of IEC 61508 series for functional safety. These mechanisms may be used in various industrial applications such as process control, manufacturing automation and machinery. This part provides guidelines for both developers and assessors of compliant devices and systems.