Representatives of ASTM International and The Human Factors and Ergonomics Society (HFES) recently signed a letter of cooperation supporting exoskeleton standards development. 

The letter of cooperation is intended to encourage technical excellence in exoskeletons and their enabling technologies through the application of standards. Additional goals include efforts to enhance technical knowledge and facilitate HFES’ input in the development of standards to reflect human-centric solutions.

The letter was signed by Brian Meincke, vice president, global business development and innovation strategy, ASTM International and Steven Kemp, executive director, HFES.

ASTM and HFES have established the letter of cooperation to achieve the following goals:

• Promote communication between the two organizations.
• Promote knowledge of ASTM standards and the benefits of ASTM membership to HFES members.
• Promote knowledge of HFES and benefits of HFES membership to ASTM members.
• Increase expert input into the development of ASTM exo technology standards and other areas of common interest from HFES.
• Pursue safe and reliable exo technologies through awareness and education activities such as workshops, symposia, training events, and conferences.

HFES, founded in 1957, is the world’s largest scientific association for human factors/ergonomics professionals. HFES serves the needs of members and the public by promoting and advancing the discovery and exchange of knowledge concerning the characteristics of human beings that are applicable to the design of systems, products, tools, and environments of all kinds.

ASTM International’s committee on exoskeletons and exosuits (F48) was formed in 2017 to develop standards that address safety, quality, performance, ergonomics and terminology for exo systems and components during their full life cycle. ASTM’s Center of Excellence in Exo Technology focuses on accelerating exo standards through research, education, workforce development, training certifications, and connecting global exo communities. For more on the Exo Technology Center of Excellence, visit www.etcoe.org. 

Media Inquiries: Jaime Martorana, tel +1.610.832.9796; jmartorana@astm.org  

Release #11219

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