SAFEGUARDING INDUSTRIAL ROBOTS

Abstract

This article considers approaches to safeguarding as it applies to those who will be required to teach, service, and work side-by-side with robots. Injury experience associated with automation indicates that the greatest risk occurs when the routine of the equipment cycle is interrupted because of a mislocated or jammed part, or when a component fails to function the way it is intended. General Motors Robotics Council established a safety work group which developed safety guidelines for robot installations, automatic safety system technologies, and a robot incident reporting system. The General Motors Robot Safety Standards (included as an insert with this article) are general performance standards as they apply to all types of robots, such as those with lifting capacities of only a few pounds and those with the ability to lift a ton. The standards deal with robot installations and the interface of personnel with robots. Following a discussion of these standards, comments are made on special applications hazards and the importance of employee training.