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Robotics Safety and Health Topics
Robotics

In Focus
Industrial robots are programmable multifunctional mechanical devices designed to move material, parts, tools, or specialized devices through variable programmed motions to perform a variety of tasks. Robots are generally used to perform unsafe, hazardous, highly repetitive, and unpleasant tasks. They have many different functions such as material handling, assembly, welding, machine tool load and unload functions, painting, spraying, and so forth.

Studies indicate that many robot accidents occur during non-routine operating conditions, such as programming, maintenance, testing, setup, or adjustment. During many of these operations the worker may temporarily be within the robot's working envelope where unintended operations could result in injuries.

The following questions link to information relevant to robotics in the workplace.

Standards What standards apply?
OSHA | National Consensus
Hazard Recognition How do I recognize hazards with robotic equipment?
 
Hazard Evaluation and Solutions How are robotic hazards evaluated and what are some solutions?
Hazard Evaluation | Control and Prevention | Robotic Benefits | Case Studies
Additional Information What additional information is available?
Related Safety and Health Topics Pages | Training | Other Resources

In Focus
Hot Topics
  • Downstate Firms Honored by OSHA For Innovative Workplace Safety And Health Practices. OSHA Region 5 News Release, (2003, May 15). Highest honors, the Z Project Award, went to Advanced Filtration Systems, Inc., Champaign, Ill. for the introduction of robotics to assist in the handling, movement and assembly of filter systems for employees inspecting product. This innovative hazard control greatly decreased potential risks associated with musculoskeletal disorders, or ergonomic related injuries.
Machine Guarding eTooleTools
  • Machine Guarding. OSHA. Focuses on recognizing and controlling common amputation hazards associated with the operation and use of certain types of machines.
 Safety and
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  Robotics
  Standards
  Hazard Recognition
  Hazard Evaluation and Solutions
  Additional
Information
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Content Reviewed 06/06/2005
 
 

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