Evaluating Vendor Safety Documentation
Ask for the package, not the certificate
A CE certificate alone proves very little. The useful documents are the risk assessment, the safety concept with performance levels, the validation record, the circuit diagrams and the operating manual with the residual risks listed.
| Document | What to check | Red flag |
|---|---|---|
| Risk assessment | Covers the whole cell and all tasks | Robot-only cover |
| Safety functions | PL/SIL targets stated with reasoning | No numbers at all |
| Validation record | Each function tested, dated, signed | A single blanket statement |
| Manual | Residual risks and correct recovery | Marketing brochure as manual |
Split responsibility honestly
The integrator is responsible for the assembled cell; the robot maker for the robot. If the integrator claims the robot's certificate covers the whole installation, ask how the fence, sensors and gripper were assessed. That question usually reveals whether the safety work was done.
Keep a change record
Any modification after validation — a moved sensor, a new product, a changed speed — invalidates part of the safety case. Require a change process and a re-validation note in writing.