The policy requires that any hardware controlled by Claude outputs capable of high-risk physical actions must have a qualified human observer with the ability to stop the equipment at any time, automatic safe-state defaults upon connection loss, and safety limits enforced by hardware or a controller that operates independently of the AI model's output.
This analysis describes what Anthropic's agreement states, permits, or reserves. It does not constitute a legal determination about enforceability. Regulatory applicability and practical outcomes may vary by jurisdiction, enforcement context, and individual circumstances. Read our methodology
This provision requires operators connecting Claude to hardware capable of physical harm to implement hardware-level independent safety controls and continuous qualified human oversight, applying to robotics, autonomous vehicles, medical devices, industrial control systems, and other physical systems.
The updated policy clarifies that Anthropic's acceptable use rules apply to all users of its products and services, including API developers, cloud customers, and app users. The policy now explicitly prohibits weapons development and related activities, and introduces a Cyber Verification Program allowing researchers to apply for adjusted safeguards for authorized dual-use work. Enforcement procedures now include warnings and throttling in addition to suspension or termination. You can apply for the Cyber Verification Program or Life Sciences Verification Program if your work involves authorized dual-use or high-risk use cases covered by real-time safeguards.
View change record →⚠ Operators deploying Claude in physical systems without required independent safety controls may face account suspension or termination and potential product liability or regulatory exposure under applicable safety law.
Cross-platform context
See how other platforms handle High-risk Physical Actions Independent Safety Controls and similar clauses.
Compare across platforms →"For High-risk Physical Actions, there must be a qualified individual who is able to observe the equipment's operation and stop it at any time, and the equipment must stop or hold a safe state when that individual intervenes or when connection to our services is lost. Any operating limits to keep the equipment within safe bounds, such as speed, force, reach, temperature, pressure, voltage, energy output, dose, or operating area, must be enforced by the equipment or a controller independent of model output.Excerpt from Anthropic's API Usage Policy
1) REGULATORY LANDSCAPE: This provision engages medical device regulation (FDA in the US, MDR in the EU), aviation safety law (FAA), vehicle and machinery safety standards (OSHA, ISO, ANSI), and EU AI Act requirements for …
Enforcement risk, jurisdiction flags, contract triggers, and due diligence action items.
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This provision requires operators connecting Claude to hardware capable of physical harm to implement hardware-level independent safety controls and continuous qualified human oversight, applying to robotics, autonomous vehicles, medical devices, industrial control systems, and other physical systems.
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