TÜV SÜD has developed a new certification mark specifically for so-called low-risk AI systems. It is aimed at manufacturers and operators of AI applications that do not fall under the strict requirements of the European AI Act, but still wish to transparently and verifiably document the quality and reliability of their systems. Initial use cases include AI algorithms that optimize the operation of automatic sliding doors to reduce a building’s energy consumption, and autonomous transport vehicles used in intralogistics.
With EU Regulation 2024/1689 (commonly referred to as the “AI Act”), Europe is introducing its first unified legal framework for artificial intelligence. This framework classifies AI systems based on the level of risk they pose. For low-risk systems, there are no mandatory legal testing requirements. Nevertheless, the demand for guidance and trust-building is growing.
"Many companies already want to take responsibility and have their AI systems voluntarily assessed, even if they're not legally required to do so," says Benedikt Pulver, Head of the Machine Safety Department at TÜV SÜD. "Our new certification mark makes this commitment visible – in a transparent, structured way based on technical criteria."
Goal: Transparency for Experts and End Users
The new TÜV SÜD mark aims to provide both technical professionals with an objective basis for evaluation and end users with clear assurance, particularly in areas such as automated building functions, retail robotics, or logistics applications. The certification is based on application-specific testing programs that consider factors such as energy efficiency, robustness, data handling, and functional safety.
A practical example includes autonomous mobile robots that coordinate within factory environments to optimize routing. Such systems are considered "low risk" under the AI Act, but TÜV SÜD’s certification mark confirms they have been evaluated according to clear and verifiable standards.
Voluntary, but with Strong Signaling Power
The certification mark is part of a modular framework that also takes future developments into account—such as voluntary manufacturer commitments under Article 69 of the AI Act.
"We believe that trust in AI cannot be created by regulation alone," Pulver continues. "Voluntary certifications send a strong signal of quality and responsibility—especially in areas where (still) no formal regulations exist."
The certification mark is available in German and English and can optionally include consumer-facing supplementary information.
More about the certification process: http://bit.ly/4nMf5o1
