As robots become a normal part of factories, warehouses, and even offices, ensuring safety is critical, not just for people, but for the machines and the business. If not managed properly, robotic systems can cause accidents, downtime, or even damage to products.
But with the right steps, we can create environments where humans and robots work together smoothly and safely.
Here are some of the best practices to deploy.
Before bringing any robot into your workspace, conduct a risk assessment to identify possible hazards. This means analysing:
- Where the robot will operate
- How it will move (e.g., speed, direction, reach)
- What tasks it will perform
- Who will work around it
A thorough assessment can help identify dangers like pinch points, high-speed movements, or unexpected shutdowns.
Even the most advanced robot is only as safe as the people who interact with it. Here’s how:
- Teach workers how the robot operates, its purpose, and its limits
- Show them how to use safety features like E-stops and override controls
- Make sure they know how to shut down the robot safely when there’s an emergency
Note: Training should be ongoing, and not just during installation.
Over time, robot parts wear out, sensors may drift out of calibration, and software needs updates. Build a maintenance schedule that includes:
- Daily or weekly inspections of moving parts, wiring, and sensors
- Monthly testing of emergency stops and safety systems
- Annual software audits and upgrades
Failing to maintain robots not only increases safety risks. It also leads to expensive downtime.
Modern robots can use AI and sensors to “see,” “sense,” and “decide” more effectively than ever. These include:
- Vision systems
- Proximity sensors
- AI-based path planning
- Wearable safety devices for workers
Robots are powerful tools that can make workplaces more productive, consistent, and even safer, but only when they’re designed with people in mind.
With the right mix of risk planning, safety features, training, and technology, businesses can build a future where humans and robots work side-by-side, confidently and securely.
At Mirai, we specialise in helping businesses keep their automation systems running at peak performance through smart, proactive machine maintenance. From routine inspections to predictive diagnostics, our solutions are designed to reduce downtime, extend equipment lifespan, and prevent costly breakdowns.
Contact us today to learn how our maintenance solutions can keep your machines in top shape and your productivity on track.