Signal Snapshot

ISO lists ISO 10218-1:2025 (Edition 3, published February 2025) as the current industrial robot safety requirements standard, with integration requirements addressed in ISO 10218-2:2025. For engineering teams, this is a review trigger even if existing cells remain operational.

What Changes Practically

The main risk is assuming legacy risk assessments still cover current operating modes after tooling, software, or throughput changes. Small process changes can invalidate the original hazard assumptions.

  • Recheck safeguarding logic after any cycle-time optimization.
  • Review teach-mode and maintenance access steps, not only automatic mode.
  • Confirm application hazards (welding, cutting, machining) are handled at the cell/application level.

Engineering Review Format (Unique)

Use a four-column worksheet for each cell: original assumption, current reality, detected gap, corrective owner/date. This format makes change-control discussions faster than generic meeting notes.

  • Link each gap to a specific task state (production, setup, jam-clear, maintenance).
  • Attach evidence: drawing revision, PLC change log, guard inspection, or training record.
  • Close actions only after revalidation, not after planning.

Decision Trigger

Any robot cell with recent software changes, end-effector changes, or manual intervention incidents should be re-reviewed first. Prioritize real exposure over calendar-based audits.