Safety Manual
6
Example Risks
Some hazards are very common with robots, for example:
1. Trapping fingers between robot joints, including a risk of
pinching or crushing if the robot collides with itself
2. Cutting or piercing skin with sharp edges and points
3. Bruising from impact when the robot is moving
4. Sprains or bone fractures from being caught between a heavy
payload and a hard surface
5. Power failure, poor grip or loose bolts causing equipment to
fall or move in unexpected ways
6. Injuries or equipment damage because the emergency stop
button is out of reach
7. Disorientation, inability to communicate effectively or
recognise hazards due to poor lighting or noisy environment
Recommended Control Measures
The following control measures may be used to reduce the level
of risk:
1. Conduct a risk assessment of the final machine and intended
use case
2. Perform visual checks and/or proof tests upon commissioning
the final machine
3. Perform visual checks and/or proof tests at predefined
maintenance intervals
4. Ensure the brake release tool remains with the robot or in a
secure, accessible location at all times
5. Ensure machine operators are outside the operating space
of the robot whenever possible, except for maintenance
or teaching operations when the robot is placed into teach
mode
6. Staff involved in the commissioning or decommissioning of
the installation should have been given appropriate training
and information to allow them to conduct the work as safely
as possible. This should cover handling and lifting techniques,