In industrial robotics, safety is not just a legal requirement—it is the foundation of responsible automation. As the use of refurbished robots continues to grow rapidly, understanding European regulations and safety standards becomes essential to ensure operations are both lawful and secure.
In Europe, industrial robots are primarily governed by the Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC, which applies to both new and refurbished equipment. Additionally, the ISO 10218 standard (Parts 1 and 2) outlines design and safety requirements for robots and robotic systems, while ISO/TS 15066 focuses on collaborative robotics and safe human-robot interaction.
When a robot is refurbished and reintroduced to the market, it must meet the same requirements as a brand-new unit. At URT, the refurbishment process is comprehensive. It includes a full mechanical and electrical inspection, verification of emergency stop systems and safety curtains, recalibration and accuracy validation, and the reissuance of technical documentation along with CE marking. This ensures that each refurbished robot complies with current standards and is legally and operationally safe.
Ignoring these regulations can have serious consequences. Operating uncertified robots may lead to regulatory penalties, loss of industrial insurance coverage, and increased risk of workplace accidents, potentially resulting in legal liability. Therefore, responsible refurbishment must go beyond simple repairs—it must include full recertification.
Modern safety systems now incorporate proximity sensors, speed limiters, laser scanners, and safe zone software, enabling collaborative work without the need for physical barriers. Even refurbished robots can be upgraded with these technologies to meet the latest safety demands.
Ultimately, safe automation is not determined by the age of the robot, but by its compliance with regulations. URT ensures that every refurbished unit is delivered certified, safe, and ready to operate in full accordance with European legislation.
If you have any questions, need further clarification, or are looking for advice about robotics and innovative solutions like those presented here, please don’t hesitate to contact us on URT. Our team of experts is ready to support you in the digital transformation of your production processes and help you seize all the opportunities offered by industrial robotics.