Content area
Full Text
In recent years, safety has taken on a new level of importance as more plants and distribution centers have automated and, in many cases, added robotics. Because of this, EN ISO, RIA (Robotics Industry Association) and other regulatory bodies have overhauled and revised their guidelines and requirements. While those regulatory changes have resulted in improved safety and other benefits, they have made what was already an often misunderstood subject even more complicated. Adding to the confusion is the fact that not all aspects or components of the automated or robotic systems are covered by the same codes or regulations as the robot portion alone - such as end-of-line stretch-wrapping operations. A brief overview of the new industrial safety regulations and best practices is in order.
Robotics at the Dock
Simple stretch wrap machines are nearly as ubiquitous at loading dock areas as dock levelers, seals or shelters. As with most all other industrial processes, what began as a manual operation (the arduous task of bending, pulling and moving shrink wrap around a pallet) is now commonly automated. Most dock employees are happy about this. However, this particular aspect of plant operation has long been overlooked as a hazard-and its dangers are increasing. As more facilities automate palletizing and stretch-wrapping, it becomes increasingly important to protect employees and pedestrians from coming into contact with the moving parts of those machines. With these suppliers adding other automated functions to their floors (such as intelligent conveyors, AGVs and AS/RS systems), it's critical that the safety methodology is similar to that of other robotic cells and is compliant with current standards.
There are no OSHA guidelines specific to the simple basic stretch wrap machines currently being used, other than the OSHA B1910 standards. As a rule of thumb, companies want to ensure safety of their employees and OSHA's General Duty Clause stipulates the following:
(a) Each employer:
(1) Shall furnish to each of his employees a place of employment which is free from recognized hazards that are causing or are likely to cause death or serious physical harm to his employees; and
(2) Shall comply with occupational safety and health standards promulgated under this Act.
(b)...