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Health and safety considerations in robot systems

There are several risks associated with working with arc welding robots. These risks can arise from the high voltage and current used in the electrical equipment, the intense light and heat generated by the arc, and the fumes and gases produced during welding. The root causes of these risks can include inadequate training, lack of proper protective equipment, and failure to follow safety procedures. The people most at risk in the factory are those who work directly with the welding robots, such as operators and maintenance personnel. It is important for these individuals to receive proper training and to follow all safety procedures to minimize the risks associated with working with arc welding robots.

So we speak in general about​

  • Clamping hazard with robot, welding jig or workpiece​
  • Injuries due to impact of robot arm or welding torch​
  • Welding eyes​
  • Burnt skin by welding light​
  • Hearing damage​
  • Lung damage due to poor smoke extraction​
  • Cutting by sharp edges

Safety is a critical aspect of working with robot systems, especially in systems with multiple stations where operators are active. There are several measures that can be taken to ensure the safety of operators working with robot systems. One important safety feature is the emergency stop button, which allows the operator to immediately stop the robot in case of an emergency. This button is usually located on the teach pendant, a handheld device used to control and program the robot​

Another important safety consideration is the use of hardware zone security for the first axis of the robot or the track of the robot. This feature prevents the robot from moving into a workstation that has not been reset for production. The zone detection of the robot operates two safety switches, which are separated from the robot software and monitored by the safety circuit​

It is also important to ensure that operators receive proper training and understand the safety procedures associated with working with robot systems. ​

​In summary, safety around robot systems with multiple stations where operators are active involves a combination of safety features, proper training, and adherence to safety standards and guidelines.​

The safety around the robot systems can be described as follows:​

1. Zone protection​
Zone protection is an important safety feature in multiple zone robot systems. It prevents the robot from moving into a workstation that has not been reset for production. The zone detection of the robot operates two safety switches, which are separated from the robot software and monitored by the safety circuit.
In a single station robot system, zone protection is not needed because there is only one workstation and the robot is not able to move into another zone.

2. Walk-in protection​

  • Light curtains​
  • Sliding screens​
  • High-speed roll-up door​
  • Step mat​
  • Scanner​

3. Fences and service door​

Knowledge

What to be known?

IWE/IWS/IWT

  • Give me 5 dangers of working with welding robots 

IWE/IWT only

  • What are the 3 main items around a robot installation to guarantee safety in accordance with CE  
  • Explain the importance of the zone protection on a robot system. Do I also need this item in a single station system?

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