According to science fiction writer Isaac Asimov, the first Law of Robotics is, “A robot may not injure a human being, or, through inaction, allow a human being to come to harm.”

As a new generation of robots begins to enter the healthcare and home use markets, the Japanese Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry is refining safety guidelines for robots to meet this standard. Guidelines require that manufacturers must employ sensors on robots to keep them from colliding with people, as well as emergency shut-off buttons. Also, soft and light materials must be used when possible to help prevent injury.

The standards apply to the new robot nanny, elder-care nurse and medical rounding models.