Understanding the 2023 Updates to the CSA C22.2 No. 301 Standard – Part 6

21 Oct 2025

The Integration of Robotics in Industrial Environments

One of the most significant updates to the CSA C22.2 No. 301 standard in 2023 is the inclusion of industrial robotics and robotic equipment within its scope. This change reflects the growing integration of robotics in industrial environments and the need for comprehensive safety and performance standards.

Certification Requirements for Robots

To be certified to CSA C22.2 No. 301, industrial robots must comply with the following:

• General requirements outlined in Sections 1 through 19
• Additional robotics-specific requirements in Annex D
• CSA Z434 for non-electrical safety aspects

Key Updates in the General Requirements (Sections 1–19)

The most notable additions are found in Section 19, which now includes several new tests specifically addressing robotic systems:

• 19.8 – Battery Overcharge
• 19.9 – Battery Discharge
• 19.10 – Component Breakdown
• 19.11 to 19.14 – Additional safety and performance tests

For battery-powered robots, these tests must either be passed directly or mitigated through the use of certified battery management systems (BMS). If a compliant BMS is not used, manufacturers should be aware that:

• Multiple test samples may be required
• The tests are destructive to batteries and BMS components

Annex D: Robotics-Specific Testing

Annex D introduces additional testing tailored to the unique demands of robotic systems:

• D.7 – Temperature Testing
• D.8 – Abnormal Operation
• D.9 – Mechanical Loading
• D.10 – Mechanical Endurance

The Abnormal Operation Test (D.8) is particularly critical, as it involves applying faults to various components such as motors, brakes, and cooling systems. These tests are often destructive, and manufacturers should plan accordingly.

The Mechanical Endurance Test (D.10) subjects robotic arms to 100,000 cycles under rated load conditions. After testing, the arm must show no degradation in performance or safety. This test is typically conducted alongside Clause 19.12 (Flexing Test), which ensures conductor integrity and safety system functionality.

CSA Z434 Integration

CSA C22.2 No. 301 now includes direct references to CSA Z434, which is the Canadian adoption of ISO 10218-1:2011 and ISO 10218-2:2011. While CSA Z434 must generally be followed (see Clause D.2), it is especially relevant for non-electrical safety requirements, such as those related to pendant controls and operator interfaces.

Final Thoughts – Robotics and CSA C22.2 No. 301

The 2023 updates to CSA C22.2 No. 301 represent a major step forward in aligning Canadian standards with the evolving landscape of industrial automation. Manufacturers and engineers working with robotic systems should familiarize themselves with these changes to ensure compliance and maintain safety in their operations.

This blog also completes the review of the 2^nd edition updates to CSA C22.2 No. 301. Manufacturers who wish to get more information are encouraged to reach out to our team of experts to help answer your questions.