THE Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is to partner with Automate UK and the Manufacturing Technology Centre to create new guidance on how cobots can safely work alongside humans.
Part of an initiative between HSE and the Regulatory Innovation Office (RIO), the guidance will look to support the safe and responsible adoption of robotics in the workplace. Co-designed with industry, the project will give companies clarity on regulatory requirements and support businesses to increase the use of robotics.
Andrew Curran CBE, director of science and chief scientific adviser at the Health and Safety Executive, said, “We recognise how guidance and advice can give employers the confidence to innovate safely and provide a platform for new technology to improve productivity and enable growth. We understand that despite there being no barrier to adoption in health and safety law there is a fear of non-compliance, which is limiting adoption.
“Therefore, we are committed to working with the Regulatory Innovation Office and industry partners to deliver the first joint HSE and industry guidance on the use of cobots to address this barrier and improve business confidence.”
