Mobile robots are becoming common in every walk of life whether it is in manufacturing, warehousing, and other sectors. The use of robots have changed the work culture for the better in terms of efficiency, productivity and timely completion of tasks. But along with this comes the safety challenges, especially in case of human-robot collaborative environments where robots and human workers interact closely. In this blog we will explore the best practices for ensuring safety when mobile robots and humans share the same workspace.

What are Mobile Robots?

Mobile robots are autonomous or semi-autonomous machines that can move around a factory floor or warehouse to perform various tasks, such as transporting materials or assisting in assembly lines. In human-robot collaborative environments, humans and robots often work together, which creates a need for robust safety measures to avoid accidents, injuries, and disruptions in productivity.

Ensuring Safety with Mobile Robots in Human-Robot Collaborative Environments - Best Practices

1. Conduct a Thorough Risk Assessment

Very first step towards introduction to mobile robots into your workspace is to conduct a risk assessment. Example: A warehouse that uses mobile robots for transporting heavy loads assesses the risk of collisions at blind corners, intersections, tight corners,  or zones with heavy foot traffic. They installed proximity sensors and visual alerts in these areas to minimize the risk of robot-human collisions. Overall the assessment should analyze all the potential hazards, such as collisions, miscommunication between robots and humans, or equipment failures.

2. Integrate Safety Sensors and Vision Systems

Integration of advanced safety sensors and vision systems is the most effective way to ensure that the human-robot environment is safe. Because the 3D cameras and sensors installed in robots can detect when a human approaches, causing the robot to slow down or stop to prevent collisions. 

Best Practices:

 - Use LiDAR, ultrasonic sensors, and cameras to give robots a 360-degree awareness of their environment.

 - Implement real-time object detection and tracking algorithms that allow robots to adjust their path if a human enters their proximity.

 - Ensure robots have emergency stop functions that are easily accessible in case of a malfunction.

3. Establish Safe Zones and Define Clear Boundaries

Clearly marked safe zones and robot pathways can help minimize the likelihood of accidents. Delineating specific zones for robot movement versus human workspaces keeps both parties aware of where they should be.

Best Practices:

 - Use floor markings, lights, or barriers to designate robot paths and no-entry zones for humans.

 - Implement geofencing technologies to restrict robot movement to designated areas.

 - Set up audible or visual alerts when a robot enters a shared space with humans.

4. Train Employees on Robot Interaction Protocols

Majority issues occur when untrained employees start to work with robots. Therefore, a training period for all the employees is mandatory to ensure that the workers know how to interact with robots safely and how to handle the situation when any problem happens? All these things workers can learn when provided with training sessions within the workspace.

Best Practices:

 - Conduct mandatory training sessions for employees who will work near mobile robots, covering robot capabilities and safety protocols.

 - Provide real-time demonstrations of how to operate emergency stop mechanisms and manual overrides.

 - Create clear guidelines on when and how workers can intervene or approach robots in operation.

When discussing best practices for ensuring safety in human-robot collaborative environments, it's essential to also understand how mobile robots are being utilized across various industries. For a broader overview, explore 10 General Applications of Mobile Robots to see how these technologies are reshaping workflows in multiple sectors.

5. Implement Collaborative Robot Safety Standards

Collaborative robots or cobots in factories must follow safety standards such as ISO 10218 and ISO/TS 15066. These standards specify the forcelimit that is safe for human robot interaction, therefore minimizing any risk of injury and creating a safer work environment for shop floor workers.

Best Practices:

 - Ensure that mobile robots are designed and programmed in compliance with international standards, such as ISO 10218 (Safety of Robots).

 -  Regularly audit and update robot safety measures to align with new guidelines and technological advances.

 - Use force-limiting robots that stop immediately if they come into contact with a human.

6. Monitor and Maintain Equipment Regularly

Every machinery requires regular maintenance and so the robots work in factories. Therefore regular monitoring is essential to ensure that all safety measures are in check. Routine checks should be done to identify issues before they lead to accidents. Learn more about keeping your autonomous mobile robots in top condition by watching Maintenance of Autonomous Mobile Robot (AMR) for essential maintenance tips and best practices.

Best Practices:

 - Set up a preventive maintenance schedule for all mobile robots to ensure sensors, vision systems, and emergency stop mechanisms function correctly.

 - Use predictive maintenance software to monitor robot performance and anticipate failures.

 - Ensure that any updates or modifications to the robot’s software or hardware are accompanied by safety re-assessments.

7. Foster a Culture of Safety and Communication

Workers who directly interact with robots should be encouraged to share their insights and concerns. Because they know most about the work and can suggest any improvement that is required for robot workflow. This will make them feel empowered to report potential hazards.

Best Practices:

 - Hold regular safety meetings to discuss any concerns related to robot operation.

 - Create an open feedback loop where employees can report unsafe conditions or near-misses.

 - Encourage a team-based approach to safety, where workers and robot operators collaborate to maintain a safe work environment.

To ensure safety when integrating mobile robots in human-robot collaborative environments, it's crucial to choose the right technology for your specific industry needs. For insights into making informed decisions, check out Factors to Consider While Choosing AMR for Automobile Manufacturing to explore key selection criteria for automated solutions in manufacturing.

Conclusion

Although mobile robots provide the best work space when used in the manufacturing sector, safety must also be the top priority in human-robot collaborative environments. Therefore by following these best practices—ranging from risk assessments and sensor integration to worker training and equipment maintenance— companies can develop a safer workplace environment and ultimately enhance the efficiency and productivity of the factory.