In the dynamic world of industrial automation, robot safety is essential to ensure efficient operations and protect workers. The Association for Advancing Automation (A3) recently announced the publication of the revised ISO 10218 standard, the global reference standard for industrial robot safety. This update, the first since 2011, introduces significant changes that reflect technological advancements and new safety needs in the industry.
Since its inception, the ISO 10218 standard has served as the basis for establishing safety guidelines in industrial robotics. With the advancement of technology and the growing adoption of collaborative robots (cobots), it was essential to review and update these standards to address new challenges and ensure safe working environments.
Key Updates to ISO 10218 Standard (2025)
The 2025 version of the ISO 10218 standard presents several important modifications:
- Clarification of Functional Safety Requirements: Functional safety requirements have been made more explicit, providing more precise guidelines to improve compliance and risk mitigation.
- Integration of Safety Requirements for Collaborative Robots: Safety requirements for collaborative robot applications have been consolidated, integrating the previously separate ISO/TS 15066 into the main standard.
- Incorporation of Safety Guidelines for Manual Procedures and End Effectors: Safety guidelines for manual loading/unloading procedures and end effectors (end-of-arm tools or EOAT) have been included, which were previously found in separate technical reports (TR 20218-1 and TR 20218-2).
- New Robot Classifications: New robot classifications have been introduced with corresponding functional safety requirements and testing methodologies.
- Cybersecurity Requirements: Requirements related to cybersecurity in the context of industrial robot safety have been incorporated, addressing growing concerns in this area.
Applications in Different Industrial Sectors
The update of the ISO 10218 standard has implications in various industrial sectors:
- Manufacturing: Factories implementing collaborative robots will benefit from clearer guidelines to ensure safe human-robot interactions.
- Automotive: The integration of new safety requirements facilitates the adoption of robots on assembly lines, improving efficiency without compromising safety.
- Electronics: The incorporation of cybersecurity requirements is crucial to protect interconnected systems in the production of electronic devices.
- Logistics and Warehousing: New robot classifications and testing methodologies allow for safer implementation of automated systems in warehouses.
The revision of the ISO 10218 standard by A3 represents a significant advancement in industrial robotics safety, reflecting the industry’s commitment to adapting to technological innovations and ensuring safe work environments. These updates not only facilitate regulatory compliance but also promote broader and safer integration of robots in various industrial sectors. Looking ahead, it is essential for industry professionals to stay informed and adopt these new guidelines to make the most of the opportunities offered by automation, always keeping safety as a priority.
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