Rockford Systems to host webinar on human-robot safety

Skyrocketing demand for automation has increased the number of robots employed in industry to more than 1.5 million. Meanwhile, collaborative robots (cobots) are making their way into new work environments, including light manufacturing. Because no technology can be made foolproof, maintaining safety in environments where humans and robots work together has become a critical but misunderstood issue for many managers who are worried they may not be keeping pace with the latest codes and regulations.

To address these concerns, Rockford Systems LLC, Rockford, Ill., will host a live, complimentary mini-webinar titled "Safeguarding Basics: Robots" on Feb. 13 from 10:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. CST. It will be led by Roger Harrison, director of training for Rockford Systems and an expert on OSHA, CFR, ANSI, and NFPA safety standards.

The webinar is designed to help participants understand how to safeguard robots to meet or exceed OSHA 29 CFR regulations and ANSI/RIA R15.06-2012 safety standards. They will learn how to keep their company in absolute compliance, reduce insurance costs, and help prevent employee accidents when working with or around robotic machinery.

The webinar will cover:

• The latest changes to ANSI/RIA R15.06-2012, including the requirement for a risk assessment for robot safety.
• How to provide appropriate safeguarding devices to integrate robots into factories and work areas.
• Understanding the difference between a service robot and a cobot.
• How accidents occur when robots are deployed improperly or used carelessly.

To register for the webinar, visit register.gotowebinar.com/register/7801964473443370241?source=press+release.