ASTM F3540-21

4.1Development of exoskeleton technologies requires careful analysis of potential risks that may be associated with their use. Failure to adequately assess risks may give rise to hazardous situations at many instances of exoskeleton use, for example during completion of human trials, during exoskeleton demonstrations in trade shows, as well as during exoskeleton training, wear, operation, transportation, maintenance, and disposal.

4.2This guide provides a minimum set of hazards that should be considered by producers when analyzing and mitigating risks related to exoskeletons. This set of hazards should be supplemented with other hazards that may reflect unique safety concerns relevant to the exoskeleton technology and application. The following sources may provide additional insight based on exoskeleton technology and application:

4.3For each listed hazard, one example of harm scenario and examples of possible harm are provided. These examples are used to illustrate potential safety consequences related to such hazards. They do not reflect a comprehensive list of all possible acute or chronic injuries that may result from exoskeleton use. Additionally, although this guide does not address hazards that may result in damage of objects, these should be considered as well during the risk analysis process.

4.4This guide does not provide detailed guidance for application of risk management processes to exoskeletons. However, the producer should use a structured approach to identify and monitor hazards, and mitigate related risks throughout the exoskeleton life-cycle. Additional guidance on risk management can be found in the following standards:

4.5This guide does not supersede any established laws or regulations of international, national, federal, state, tribal, local, or regional governments.

1.1This guide lists typical hazards that should be considered by exoskeleton producers when analyzing and managing potential risks related to exoskeletons.

1.2Where possible, this guide provides references to agency standards, regulations, or guidelines for assessment of risks related to these hazards and for application of risk reduction measures.

1.3This guide applies to all exoskeleton types, regardless of the applications of the technology such as consumer, industrial, medical, military, and emergency management services.

1.4UnitsThe values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

1.5This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.6This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.