en.Wedoany.com Reported - UK's Automate UK recently announced that it is working with the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) and the Regulatory Innovation Office (RIO) to explore the development of workplace safety guidelines for collaborative robots, aiming to provide clear guidance on how cobots can safely work alongside humans.
This collaboration also brings together organizations such as the Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC) to support the industry in advancing automation technology applications safely, while providing clear guidance for companies on regulatory compliance. Currently, the UK ranks 24th globally in industrial robot density, only half the EU average, despite ranking first in academic robotics research. Industry analysis indicates that a key barrier to automation adoption is regulatory uncertainty, particularly concerning collaborative robots (cobots). According to industry estimates, safety concerns alone have led to 15% to 20% of automation customer inquiries being put on hold.
This project will integrate resources from multiple parties to launch the first HSE-supported guide for advanced robotics applications. As the UK's rental industry association, Automate UK expects collaborative robot adoption to grow by 25% by the end of 2027. Phase one of the project will launch this summer, focusing on providing regulatory clarity for collaborative applications, aiming to build industry confidence in ensuring safe human-robot collaboration. Phase two will focus on cutting-edge use cases, where artificial intelligence embedded in robotic systems is raising new safety concerns. To kick off phase two, RIO will convene stakeholders this summer to explore how tools such as synthetic testing can help regulators and industry support the safe adoption of robots.
Dr. Andrew Curran CBE, Chief Scientific Adviser and Director of Science at the Health and Safety Executive, stated that HSE recognizes how guidance and advice can give employers the confidence to innovate safely, providing a platform for new technologies that boost productivity and growth. He noted that while health and safety laws do not pose barriers to adoption, fear of non-compliance limits uptake. HSE is committed to working with the Regulatory Innovation Office and industry partners to launch the first jointly developed guide on collaborative robot use, removing this barrier and enhancing business confidence.
Oliver Selby, Chair of the British Automation and Robot Association (BARA) under Automate UK, said that Automate UK and BARA welcome the Regulatory Innovation Office's focus on reducing barriers to robot adoption. Based on feedback from its members, the current regulatory framework is adequate, but there remains a significant gap in understanding and confidence among end-user stakeholders. He added that more education and practical guidance are needed to help businesses fully embrace safe human-robot collaboration.
