Risk Assessment in robotics is the systematic process of identifying hazards associated with a robot system, estimating the severity and probability of potential harm, and determining whether risks are acceptable or require mitigation. It is mandated by ISO 10218-1/-2 for industrial robots and ISO 13482 for personal care robots, and forms the foundation for selecting appropriate safeguarding measures and collaborative operation modes.
A robot risk assessment typically produces a formal risk-reduction record covering: task and hazard identification, initial risk estimation (harm severity × exposure frequency × avoidance probability), identification of risk-reduction measures, and residual-risk evaluation after measures are applied. The output drives the entire safety architecture of the robot cell and must be documented for regulatory and liability purposes.