normakte / Autonomous mobile machinery
Driverless transport systems, autonomous mowers, mobile robots: the Regulation covers them expressly for the first time. The requirements are in chapter 3 of Annex III – here is the overview.
| Topic | Requirement | Annex III |
|---|---|---|
| Concept | Mobile machinery with an autonomous mode in which all essential safety functions are ensured in its travel and working area without permanent interaction with operators | 3.1.1(c) |
| Supervisory function | Where appropriate, remote supervision by a supervisor; only stopping, starting or bringing into a safe position and state; machine not operable without active supervision | 3.2.4 |
| Control system | Performs the safety functions autonomously, even where functions are commanded via remote supervision | 3.3 |
| Travel | Risks related to the area in which it travels and works must be taken into account | 3.3.2 |
| Protection concept | Depending on the risk assessment: enclosed area with a perimeter protective system and/or detection of persons, domestic animals and obstacles | 3.3.3 |
| Trailers | Movements with trailers or towed equipment must not create risks in the danger zone | 3.3.3 |
| Steering | Failure of the steering system must not affect safety | 3.3.5 |
| Charging | No contact or collision risks when travelling autonomously to the charging station | 3.5.1 |
| Instructions | Characteristics of the intended travel, working and danger zones | 3.6.3 |
Chapter 3 applies in addition to chapter 1 to all machinery presenting hazards due to mobility. Which solution is sufficient in a given case – protected area, sensors, speed – follows from the risk assessment and is a task for specialists.
If it operates in an autonomous mode with all essential safety functions ensured without permanent interaction with operators, yes (3.1.1(c)). The classification must be justified in the risk assessment.
Not because of autonomy alone. A notified body is needed if the machine falls under Annex I – for example with embedded learning systems ensuring safety functions.
The supervisory function is required “where appropriate” (3.2.4). If provided, the machine must not be operable without the supervisory function active.
Protection concept, zones, supervisory function and evidence in one file. Trial file free until 20.01.2027.
Sources. Regulation (EU) 2023/1230, OJ L 165, 29.6.2023, including the corrigendum of 1.4.2025; Directive 2006/42/EC for the previous regime.
The information has been checked against the official text, paraphrased and shortened; only the official text is authentic.
normakte is a drafting and calculation aid; it replaces neither conformity assessment, nor a notified body, nor a technical assessment by a specialist, nor legal advice.