Last edit: 11/05/2025
[ISO 10218-1: 2025] Every robot shall have:
- a normal stop function whereby the robot can be brought safely to a complete stop;
- a protective stop function; and
- an independent emergency stop function.
Each stop function shall have provision for the connection of external devices..
Usually, robots should have two stop modes:
1. Emergency Stop Mode: if the robot receives the stop command in this mode, it stops immediately, with no possibility of restarting it as long as it receives the signal;
2. Protective stop: the robot receives the signal from the interlocks (or a safety radar). If the robot is stopped in Protective Stop Mode, the robot can still be moved by means of the relevant handheld hand control but under safe conditions (operator in a safe position or at limited speed and by means of maintained action commands).
In addition, any controller and/or handheld hand control with which the robot can be moved or cause a dangerous situation must be equipped with a manually operated emergency stop function that:
- Has priority over all other robot control modes
- Causes all hazardous parts in the area to stop
- Removes power from the robot’s actuator drives
- Remains active until it is reset
In the new edition of the standard, the “Normal Stop” becomes a safety function. That is something unique, but we have to live with it!