Pioneering Safety with Lorenzo Nava

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ringing new technology to market is hard enough, but certifying it is even harder. In this episode of the Safety Third podcast, Lorenzo Nava discusses what it takes to certify advanced radar and sensing systems that defy traditional standards.

In this episode, Nava discusses:

  • Evolving standards: Existing frameworks often don’t apply to novel technologies.

  • Putting principles ahead of prescriptions: Safety needs flexible, risk-based approaches.

  • Starting safety early: Involve certifiers from day one to avoid last-minute blockers.

  • Thinking globally: Uncertified tech has worldwide implications—collaboration is critical.

  • Creating meaningful metaphors: Nava compares innovation to rock climbing—success requires planning, not just bold moves.

Certifiers as Strategic Partners

Nava emphasizes the value of working with certifiers throughout the development process. When safety experts are involved early, they can help define the path forward—not just enforce it. This proactive, collaboration approach can reduce delays, clarify expectations, and foster more innovative outcomes.

A Call for Adaptable Certification

As technologies outpace regulations, the need for globally aligned, adaptive safety frameworks is growing. Nava urges the industry to rethink what certification looks like in a world where innovation is the norm, not the exception.

🎧 Listen to the episode

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