Robots are taking over the world. If you work in manufacturing, they are right there beside you and are just as dangerous as fiction authors predicted.
Robots can kill and injure you, yet they are not going to do it with a high-tech gun, and they are not going to do it intentionally.
Many manufacturers have turned to robots to increase efficiency
While robots require a high initial outlay, you don’t need to pay them or allow them two weeks’ vacation, and they can work all day and night without bathroom breaks or food. The problem for their fellow workers is that they have little tolerance for anyone that gets in their way.
While some machines have sensors to detect the need to halt because someone is in their path, many carry on regardless. Due to their innate power, they could take off your limb, crush you or cause any number of serious or fatal injuries if you come into contact with them.
Employers using robots must ensure human safety
When you go to work, your employer becomes responsible for your safety. Here are some things they must do:
- Ensure adequate training: Employers need to explain the dangers the particular robots present and how you can work side by side with them in safety
- Set out safe areas: If a specific robotic arm swings in a specific range, they must make that a clear no go area
- Ensure adequate power supply cut-offs: All machines require cleaning and maintenance. No worker should be allowed to perform these tasks unless they can guarantee the robot will not spring back into life. That can happen when a blockage clears or someone turns the power back on.
If a robot injures you at work, you cannot claim against it. You can, however, claim against your employer’s workers’ compensation insurance. It is not an automated process, so consider legal help to get the full amount of compensation you are entitled to.
