Strategic Focus: Improving Safety With Robotics And Automation

Robots have automated repetitive and dangerous industrial tasks since their initial deployment in the automotive manufacturing industry in the 1960s. In 2021, the International Federation of Robotics reported that industrial robot installations had been increasing year on year by 16% on average since 2016. The trend to digitize operations has been driven in part by the COVID-19 pandemic, which has changed how firms decide to deploy human capital. Modern advancements in environmental sensors, machine vision and advanced mechanics have expanded the applicability of robots to several high-risk functions. EHS executives should recognise the increasing complexity of tasks industrial robots can automate and the implications for worker safety and plant efficiency. As a result, firms should take a holistic approach to investment in robotics and automation that accounts for these tangible and intrinsic benefits. This report outlines the key safety benefits and implementation considerations when automating human-led tasks with industrial robots. Readers can identify applicable use cases from the examples provided to help inform the implementation of robotics and automation for safety.