Safety Concepts for Construction Robotics

There are a few examples of modern technology that are becoming more and more popular and useful around the world of industrial construction, and one of the top examples here is the realm of robotics. There are various kinds of robotic devices and equipment that are being increasingly utilized in different kinds of construction projects, and while these can be enormously beneficial, they also come with some important safety requirements to be cognizant of.

At Redi, we’re here to offer a wide range of industrial construction services across Colorado, Nevada and Wyoming, including everything from hydrovac services and industrial insulation to broad needs like safety training and more. Here are some basics on how robotics are impacting the world of industrial construction, some of the safety improvements these robotics offer when used correctly, and some basic hazards and safety practices to keep in mind when utilizing any kind of robotics for a project.

Examples of Robotics in Industrial Construction

If you look around the various needs of industrial construction projects, you’ll see several places where robotics are becoming more and more popular. These include everything from simple drones used for aerial inspections to robotic arms utilized for excavation or demolition.

In addition, there are several other areas where robotics is being utilized beyond just the construction process directly. One example here is in project planning software, which often utilizes artificial intelligence (AI) technology that allows it to analyze various factors and recommend the most efficient and effective construction methods.

Safety Improvements with Robotics

There are several ways in which robotics can improve safety on an industrial construction site:

• Basic safety awareness increases: Because they’re using robotics that require more care and attention, workers are naturally going to be more cautious and aware of safety risks. These robotics also often replace processes that have been in place for years or even decades, which may have become stale and less safety-conscious than they were initially.
• Reduced worker exposure to hazards: In several areas, robotics have replaced jobs that were traditionally done by human workers in dangerous conditions. Excavation or demolition are two good examples here – these tasks can now be completed remotely with the use of robotics, reducing the risk of injury or harm to workers.
• Improved accuracy: Robotics often offer far more accurate construction processes than manual labor previously did. This leads to fewer errors and problems that might have required rework or repairs, both of which come with safety risks for workers.
• Enhanced monitoring: Many robotics systems now come with added sensors and other equipment designed specifically to monitor a project site and identify potential safety hazards before they become major issues.

Hazards and Safety Practices

It’s important for anyone using robotics in an industrial construction setting to be aware of several common hazards and safety practices associated with them. Some specific areas to keep an eye on here include:

• Installation hazards: When setting up a robotics system, there may be hazards related to electrical or mechanical equipment that needs to be installed.
• Operational hazards: Proper training and safety protocols need to be followed when operating any kind of robotics system. This includes things like ensuring workers are familiar with the control systems and know how to handle them safely.
• Electrical hazards: Many robotics systems utilize electrical power, which means there are inherent risks involved if they malfunction or if workers don’t take proper precautions when working around them.
• Access hazards: Some workers may need to access areas where robotics are being used, which can pose safety risks if these areas aren’t properly marked or cordoned off.
• Interference hazards: In some cases, robotics systems may interfere with other equipment or tools being used on the same site. Proper communication and coordination are essential to avoid any safety risks in these situations.

To avoid these hazards and ensure safety, it’s important to have proper training for all workers involved in the use of robotics on an industrial construction site. Regular maintenance and inspections are also crucial to identifying potential safety issues before they become major problems.

By being aware of these hazards and practicing good safety practices, we can continue to reap the benefits of using robotics in industrial construction while keeping our workers safe. At Redi, we prioritize safety in all our projects and are committed to utilizing the latest technologies to improve efficiency and safety on every job site. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help with your next industrial construction project around Wyoming, Colorado or Nevada.