SAFECOMP '96 contains papers presented at the 15th International Conference on Computer Safety, Reliability and Security held in Vienna, Austria, 23-25 October 1996. The conference aimed to provide an opportunity for technical developers and users to discuss and review their experiences, to consider the best technologies currently available, and to identify the skills and technologies required for the future. SAFECOMP '96 focuses on critical computer applications and is intended as a platform for technology transfer between academia, industry and research institutions. SAFECOMP '96 will be of interest to all those in universities, research institutions, industry and business who want to be well-informed about the current international state of the art in computer safety, reliability and security.