What is ISO 10218, and which robots does it cover?

• A. A standard for painting robots.
• B. A standard for software used in robots.
• C. International safety standard for industrial robots, covering performance and safeguarding requirements.
• D. A standard for robot packaging.

Answer: (C)

ISO 10218 is an international safety standard for industrial robots and the systems they operate within. It focuses on safety performance and safeguarding requirements, guiding how the robot should be designed, installed, programmed, operated, and maintained, and how the surrounding cell or system is guarded. The aim is to minimize risk to workers by specifying protective measures, emergency stop requirements, safe speeds and movements, and clear interfaces between the robot and its environment. It covers industrial robots used in manufacturing and similar settings (not limited to a single application like painting), and is complemented by other standards that address related topics. For collaborative robots, there are separate guidelines beyond ISO 10218.