Overview of ISO 10218 Revision: A Leap in Industrial Robot Safety
The ISO 10218, the leading global standard for industrial robot safety, has undergone a major revision, marking its first update since 2011. After nearly eight years of collaboration among hundreds of global experts, the revised standard promises to significantly enhance safety protocols in industrial settings. The revisions focus on making safety requirements clearer, more explicit, and more aligned with today’s rapidly advancing automation technologies. This overhaul will also streamline compliance efforts for manufacturers and integrators.
Key Changes in ISO 10218 Parts 1 and 2
The revision of ISO 10218 consists of two distinct parts:
- Part 1: Safety Requirements for Industrial Robots (Manufacturers)
- Part 2: Safety Requirements for Industrial Robot Applications and Robot Cells (System Integrators)
Both parts have been updated to address the evolving safety landscape in industrial environments. One of the most notable changes is the emphasis on clarified functional safety requirements, making compliance much more straightforward. Previously, safety requirements were often implied, but the new approach ensures that they are now explicitly stated, making it easier for manufacturers to implement them.
Incorporation of Collaborative Robots and Cybersecurity
A significant update is the integration of safety requirements for collaborative robot applications, previously covered in the separate ISO/TS 15066 standard. This consolidation makes it easier for companies to apply safety standards when using collaborative robots in shared workspaces. Furthermore, the inclusion of cybersecurity requirements marks an important step forward in ensuring industrial robot safety in the digital age.
Updated Robot Classifications and Test Methodologies
The new version of ISO 10218 introduces new robot classifications, each with corresponding functional safety requirements and test methodologies. This makes the standard more applicable to the diverse types of robots used across various industries today. These classifications will help manufacturers and system integrators apply appropriate safety measures based on the specific types of robots and applications in use.
Why These Updates Matter: A Critical Step for Industrial Robotics
As industrial robotics continue to advance at an unprecedented rate, the need for up-to-date safety standards has never been greater. The latest revision of ISO 10218 ensures that safety protocols are more aligned with the modern-day challenges of automation, including the increasing use of collaborative robots and the growing concern over cybersecurity. The updated standards will offer manufacturers and system integrators a clearer, more effective framework for creating safe working environments.
Conclusion: A Vital Move for the Future of Robotics
The overhaul of ISO 10218 marks a pivotal moment in industrial robotics. As automation technologies continue to evolve, so too must the standards that ensure safety in the workplace. The revised ISO 10218 will serve as a vital tool for improving safety practices, reducing risks, and helping organizations stay compliant with the latest technological advances.
