The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) is planning global safety standards for humanoid robots through a multi-year initiative aimed at defining design and operational guidelines for the technology. A working group meeting in Barcelona, Spain, brings together 40 to 50 international experts to contribute to the framework that will guide the safe development and deployment of humanoid robots.
The initiative focuses on addressing the unique risks associated with humanoid systems, particularly in their interactions with people in workplace and public settings. The standards under development, including the proposed ISO 25785-1, are expected to set criteria for risk assessment, operational safety, and human–robot collaboration protocols.
Humanoid robots differ from traditional industrial or collaborative robots due to their anthropomorphic form and movement capabilities, which create distinct challenges for ensuring safe coexistence with humans. The ISO framework aims to provide harmonized global safety requirements that can be applied across regions and industries, supporting the responsible integration of humanoid robotics into everyday environments.
The working group meeting in Barcelona represents one stage in an extended process of international consultation and technical review that will determine the final form of the ISO safety standards for humanoid robots.
