Global leaders in all things robotics have been meeting in Melbourne this week to further develop the standards guiding the ever-expanding use of robots.

“Nearly every sector of the Australian economy is utilising some degree of robotic device,” said CEO of Standards Australia, Dr Bronwyn Evans.

“Whether it is an industrial robot, service robot or a medical robot there are infinite applications for these devices and standards have a significant role to play in their most effective rollout.”

A working group of the international technical committee developing these International Standards, ISO/TC 299 WG 3 Industrial Safety, has been meeting in Melbourne this week to progress the guidance documents.

“The meeting in Melbourne demonstrates Australia’s contribution to this growing sector, as well as the global interest in having Australian experts at the table as the standards are developed,” said Dr Evans.

Australia well-respected in industrial safety

One of the Australian representatives on this working group, Mr Frank Schrever, has been involved from the start and has attended these international meetings previously.

“Australia is well-respected in this space and is directly involved in the development of standards, particularly in the industrial safety aspect,” said Mr Schrever. “There are more than 1,000 companies involved in robotics in Australia and the continued development of standards to support this number climbing will ensure the industry grows whilst maintaining and improving safety and efficiency.”

Dr Evans says standards have long been at the forefront of new technologies.

The recent meeting reflects Australia’s position as a global player in robotics and our key role in contributing to international standards around their increased use.