Automation and Robotic Safety
When working an industrial job there are many factors an employee should be cautious of to avoid an on-site potential injury. A man-made machine that has the potential to cause you harm is not just a thing of science fiction. The terminator is not the only machine you should have nightmares of. It would be silly to fathom that a conveyor belt can cause you just as much harm, but this scenario is more common than you might think.
Why Does this Matter?
While the current job you work at may or may not use some kind of robotic assistance, automation is truly seeming to be the way of the future. It seems all but inevitable that most industries will have this robotic automation in one form or another, so it is best to know the potential dangers of this new and growing technology.
When performing your daily duties on your job site it is in your best interest to understand that there are many automation and robotic related hazards that are waiting to happen. Fortunately for you we’ve got you covered with a few tips on what you should look out for while on the job.
Things to Keep in Mind
Proper training of robotics should be understood by all programmers, operators & maintenance workers. If you don’t understand how something works don’t be afraid to ask your supervisor. Proper training should highlight safe work practices which should include the following:
- Workers must be familiar with all working aspects of the robot, including full range of motion, known hazards, how the robot is programmed, emergency stop buttons, and safety barriers, before operating or performing maintenance work at robotic workstations.
- Operators should never be in reach of the robot while it is operating.
- Programmers, operators, and maintenance workers should operate robots at reduced speeds consistent with adequate worker response to avoid hazards during programming and be aware of all conceivable pinch points, such as poles, walls, and other equipment, in the robots’ operational area.
In an ever-evolving work environment we are faced with new challenges daily. With proper training and following these safety practices you can feel more comfortable about being at your place of work without the fear of being injured.
