New NSC white paper: ‘Improving Workplace Safety with Robotics’

Original article published by Safety+Health
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Itasca, IL — The benefits that robotic technologies can bring to workplace safety programs “cannot be overlooked,” National Safety Council experts say.

A new NSC white paper, Improving Workplace Safety with Robotics, guides employers in assessing risks, identifying technology solutions and preparing jobsites for their implementation.

Using analyses of academic journals, vendor interviews and case studies, the white paper evaluates the benefits of robotics and autonomous mobile robots on reducing worker injuries and fatalities. It also outlines best practices employers can follow to implement robotic technology across a range of workplaces.

“Recent advancements in data science and artificial intelligence mean that robotic vehicles and arms aren’t just capable of augmenting complex, precise tasks alongside human workers, but in many instances can eliminate employees’ exposure to dangerous machinery and workplace hazards altogether,” said Katherine Mendoza, senior director of workplace programs at NSC.

The white paper:

  • Assesses the benefits and applications of five most common robot configurations available to employers.
  • Provides examples of ways employers can use robots to make their workplaces safer.
  • Addresses barriers to widespread robot adoption, along with concerns that robotics or other technology could eventually replace human workers.

“This report helps employers understand the various types of robots, their unique benefits and also some drawbacks so they can more effectively integrate lifesaving technology into their workplaces,” Mendoza said.


McCraren Compliance offers many opportunities in safety training to help circumvent accidents. Please take a moment to visit our calendar of classes to see what we can do to help your safety measures from training to consulting.

Construction safety report looks at hazard prevention for human-robot interactions

First published by Safety+Health an NSC publication

Photo: CPWR

Silver Spring, MD — To help assess and quantify human-robot interaction safety hazards on construction worksites, a recently published report from CPWR – The Center for Construction Research and Training details a newly developed practical process and tools for practitioners.

CPWR researchers looked at hazards linked to the use of robotics and automation, such as drones, exoskeletons and “single-task” construction robots. They identified 40 such hazards and classified them into seven groups, including unauthorized access or operational situation awareness, mechanical concerns, power systems, and improper installation.

The researchers developed safety risk ratings for three kinds of robotics and automation – wearable robots, remote-operated robots and automated robots onsite – for three kinds of construction tasks (bricklaying, drywall installation, and concrete grinding and polishing).

From there, the researchers developed 22 preventive strategies and created a process for assessing and controlling hazards related to human-robot interaction. The process includes Safety Data Sheets on the use of exoskeletons, remote-operated robots and onsite automated robots, such as those involved in bricklaying. Also included are Job Hazard Analysis protocols for different tasks.

The report features descriptions of available robotics and automation technologies, applications of those technologies, factors that influence the use of those technologies, and current standards and procedures.


McCraren Compliance offers many opportunities in safety training to help circumvent accidents. Please take a moment to visit our calendar of classes to see what we can do to help your safety measures from training to consulting.