Weller has tackled this problem with their benchtop welding robot. It’s a fully enclosed system that extracts welding fumes and dramatically reduces workers’ exposure to harmful chemicals.
Dangerous Situations
Robots can also save workers from hazardous environments or heights. To inspect, maintain, and repair the pipes connecting offshore oil rigs to the ocean floor, for instance, workers need to rappel from the platform. At times, they must also dive underwater or climb tall equipment. All of these situations are risky.
Some oil companies are now using robots to perform these tasks. BP’s Thunder Horse oil platform uses a robot with magnetic tracks that can move along pipelines and other equipment to inspect it. The energy industry is also turning to aerial and underwater drones for equipment inspection and maintenance.
Automated Safeguards
You don’t need to work in an exceptionally dangerous environment for robotics to improve worker safety. Incorporating automation into standard factory equipment can also help improve the health and safety of employees.
Using cameras and smart technology with a forklift, for example, can prevent collisions. Driver-assist features in cars use a similar method. Companies can now even use driverless forklifts in their warehouses.
Learning New Skills
Worries that robots are taking our jobs are common in today’s world. It’s true companies are automating tasks that human workers once did, but many of these duties involve the greatest risk.
Robotics will cause companies to cut some positions, but new roles will also open up for workers to oversee robots, work on automation equipment, and take on other responsibilities. The workforce has always adapted to new technologies by shifting its focus.
That’s not to say the change will be easy. Adjusting to this new work world will require workers to learn new skills and ways of operating.
As we make the transition, however, let’s do it in a way that improves their health and safety of our employees.
For more trends in robotics and artificial intelligence, visit the Robotics & AI Channel.