--Introduction of UL's first-ever consumer and commercial robot certification 
document addresses human-robot interaction safety concerns

UL, a leading global safety science company, has issued UL 3300 ( 
https://c212.net/c/link/?t=0&l=en&o=2901725-1&h=2655258081&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.shopulstandards.com%2FProductDetail.aspx%3FproductId%3DUL3300_1_O_20200824&a=UL+3300 
), the Outline of Investigation (OOI) for Service, Communication, Information, 
Education and Entertainment (SCIEE) Robots. The document describes the 
requirements used to evaluate robot operational safety focusing on 
multidirectional mobility, fire and shock hazards, external manipulation, user 
classes, and use surroundings. Since SCIEE (pronounced sky) robots typically 
operate near humans, the outline places a priority on the safe operation of 
robots in a variety of environments where people are present.

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"Robot technology and applications are quickly expanding from the industrial 
and manufacturing segment to public and commercial spaces as well as within 
homes to assist and improve quality of life for people," said Michael Sakamoto, 
senior manager of UL's Consumer Technology division. "As this trend 
accelerates, additional safety concerns, including those associated with robot 
and human interactions, need to be identified and addressed." 

Rapid technological advancements are giving rise to a new generation of robots 
that have the ability to perform diverse tasks in open spaces and work with and 
alongside people. While already a mainstay within industrial and manufacturing 
sectors, next-generation robots are being utilized in nontraditional settings, 
such as grocery stores, hotels, airports, banks, shopping malls and public 
spaces, including sidewalks and parks. In addition, they are increasingly 
showing up in homes. With an increasing number of people living alone, service 
robots can be a welcome addition to the household. According to a presentation 
at World Robotics 2019 delivered by the International Federation of Robotics 
(IFR), the domestic and professional service robot sector is predicted to grow 
more than 40% (CAGR) over the next three years. While it's already a $17.2 
billion industry, according to IFR, COVID-19 has pushed aggressive development 
of solutions to address the pandemic.  

Robots are being utilized to improve efficiency and productivity. With the 
latest robotic technology innovations, they also are being utilized to boost 
customer service, grow an operation's flexibility and enhance brand value. With 
growing interest of robots in all areas of an organization, from brand and 
marketing and customer experience leadership to business strategists and IT 
heads, the safe deployment and operation of robots, especially in the public 
domain, has become a key concern for businesses globally.

"UL 3300 demonstrates how we are addressing the increasing complexities of 
consumer and commercial robots, as showcased in the active participation and 
leadership in robot safety standards development, technical committees and 
industry working groups," Sakamoto said. "Helping to bring innovative robot 
technologies to market fast, our teams are poised to work with robot equipment 
and component manufacturers early in the product design stage to help get ahead 
of potential safety issues and avoid late stage production delays that impact 
the bottom line and customer trust."

The UL Standards division of Underwriters Laboratories, our nonprofit 
affiliate, is beginning the process of developing a consensus standard using 
the UL 3300 OOI as the seed document. To apply for participation on the 
Standards Technical Panel, please contact Deborah Prince, standards program 
manager, Underwriters Laboratories. To purchase a copy of UL 3300, please visit 
https://shopULstandards.com. For more information or to request a quote for 
evaluation and/or product certification, contact ctech@ul.com.

About UL
UL helps create a better world by applying science to solve safety, security 
and sustainability challenges. We empower trust by enabling the safe adoption 
of innovative new products and technologies. Everyone at UL shares a passion to 
make the world a safer place. All of our work, from independent research and 
standards development, to testing and certification, to providing analytical 
and digital solutions, helps improve global well-being. Businesses, industries, 
governments, regulatory authorities and the public put their trust in us so 
they can make smarter decisions. To learn more, visit UL.com. To learn more 
about our nonprofit activities, visit UL.org.

Press contact:
Steven Brewster
UL
steven.brewster@ul.com
1+847.664.8425

SOURCE: UL