New European Norms for Cobots: What Businesses Must Know Before 2027

Introduction: Why Cobots Are Getting New Norms

Cobots, or collaborative robots, are becoming a core part of European industry. Unlike traditional robots that stay behind cages, cobots share workspaces with people, making production more flexible.

But with greater human-robot interaction comes new risks. That’s why the EU has introduced the new European norms for cobots, modernizing safety rules and preparing companies for an automated future.

The most important changes come from:

• The EU Machinery Regulation 2023/1230 (binding from January 2027).
• The updated ISO 10218-1 and 10218-2 standards (published in 2025).

Together, they reshape how cobots must be designed, integrated, and used across Europe.

The EU Machinery Regulation 2023/1230

Replacing the old Machinery Directive, this new regulation introduces:

• Stronger safety requirements for advanced robots and collaborative machines.
• Clearer responsibilities for manufacturers, importers, and distributors.
• Cybersecurity included as part of machine safety.
• Stricter conformity assessments before CE marking.

It comes into effect on 19 January 2027, giving companies time to adapt.

ISO 10218 Updates: Focus on Applications, Not Just Robots

The new ISO 10218-1/2 standards update safety rules for industrial robots. Key changes include:

• Collaborative safety guidance (previously in ISO/TS 15066) is now integrated.
• Robots are categorized into Class 1 and Class 2, based on risk levels.
• Safety functions (emergency stop, protective stop, speed monitoring) now have default performance levels (PL/SIL).
• The focus shifts from “collaborative robots” to “collaborative applications.”

This means businesses must assess not just the robot, but the entire work setup, including tools, layout, and operator tasks.

Key Compliance Requirements for Businesses

1. Risk Assessments

Every cobot application needs a thorough risk assessment covering:

• Human interaction scenarios.
• Force, speed, and pressure limits.
• Safeguarding methods and emergency stops.

2. Safety Functions

Cobots must meet default performance levels for safety functions. If companies deviate, they must justify it with documented analysis.

3. Cybersecurity

Safety now includes protecting software and connectivity. Remote updates, network access, and firmware must be secure against tampering.

4. Training and Documentation

Operators need proper training. Manuals must explain safety procedures clearly, while companies must keep technical files and compliance records.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Assuming a cobot is safe “out of the box.”
• Ignoring cybersecurity in safety planning.
• Relying on outdated ISO/TS 15066 instead of the new ISO 10218.
• Forgetting that compliance is both a manufacturer and end-user responsibility.

Business Benefits of Compliance

Far from being a burden, compliance offers clear advantages:

• Trust & Reputation: Customers value safe, certified technology.
• Future-Proofing: Early compliance reduces costly retrofits later.
• Competitive Edge: Companies with compliant cobots will be market leaders when the regulation takes effect.

FAQs About the New European Norms for Cobots

1. When do the new norms become mandatory?
The EU Machinery Regulation applies from 19 January 2027. ISO standards are already recommended.

2. Do existing cobots need replacing?
Not always — but upgrades may be necessary for safety and cybersecurity.

3. What happened to ISO/TS 15066?
It’s now integrated into ISO 10218-2.

4. Who is responsible for compliance?
Both manufacturers (design) and end-users (application risk assessment).

5. Why is cybersecurity included?
Because connected cobots face risks like hacking and unauthorized updates that could cause accidents.

Conclusion: Prepare Today, Lead Tomorrow

The new European norms for cobots are not just rules — they’re a roadmap for safer and smarter automation.

Companies that start adapting now will avoid last-minute compliance costs, protect their workforce, and gain a strong competitive advantage.

By 2027, compliance won’t just be mandatory — it will be the mark of a trusted, future-ready robotics business.

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