Keeping workers safe in various conditions is one of the biggest challenges in the construction and manufacturing industries. Employers strive to create the safest worksites possible, but some jobsites present more potential risk than others. That’s where bots can help.
What’s available?
There are two types of bots generally in use on today’s jobsites:
Robot – a machine, especially one that is programmable by a computer, capable of carrying out a complex series of actions automatically. Robots can be guided by external controls or the controls may be embedded.
Cobot – collaborative robot- a robot intended to physically interact with humans in a shared workspace. This is in contrast with other robots that are designed to operate autonomously or with limited guidance.
Using cobots for safety
Cobots are complex machines that work hand-in-hand with humans. In a shared process, the cobots support and relieve the human operator. They work directly with workers to execute tasks that may be hard on the human body. This is particularly ideal for lifting heavy objects or doing repetitive movements. Some ideas for cobot or robot use include:
- Assembly
- Loading and unloading
- Material handling
- Painting
- Spraying
- Welding
Safety when operating bots
While bots have numerous benefits for keeping workers safe, they can be dangerous if mishandled or misused. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, many robot accidents occur during non-routine operations such as programming, maintenance, testing, setup or adjustment. During many of these operations, the worker may be temporarily within the robot’s working range, causing unintended injuries.
The good news? Most cobots have passive compliance that allows them to submit to abnormal external forces. In a collision, the cobot’s joints may pivot away from the force to eliminate injury or damage.
A cost-effective solution
Cobots can help keep workers safe for as low as $15,000 and have few additional expenses — such as end-arm tooling. To receive a risk assessment, and determine if cobots are right for your business, talk to an today.
