Automation & Robotics Safety Solutions
Robots are increasingly employed to pick and place goods and packages to complete orders. As in any other robot application, industrial robots present a high risk of impact, crushing, shearing and dropping of loads handled. That is why you need to be aware of the risks and how you can prevent them.
Each type of automation introduces its own hazards. To protect people and keep the flow running, we need to understand how these systems work, where human interaction takes place, and what happens in case of malfunction.
Risks to be aware of when it comes to robot picking and automation:
- Fast-moving arms, conveyors or shuttles can trap body parts in tight spaces
- Poorly protected zones allow people to enter hazardous areas unnoticed
- Robots in collaborative operations pose risks through tools, payloads or sudden motion
- Goods handled at speed or height can fall and cause injury
Our goal is to keep people safe while allowing automation to do its job efficiently and without unnecessary interruptions.
Robotic picking
This zone involves high-speed arms or mobile units picking goods for orders. In some installations, the robot works within a closed cell. In others, low force and speed in direction collaboration with staff. While robots meant for collaboration are designed to reduce injury upon contact, risks still arise from the tool itself, the way items are transferred, or sudden motions in tight areas. Space constraints can make things even more dangerous. That's why these systems often require physical separation or barriers that guide people away from danger zones without disrupting the process.
Storage and buffering
Storage systems such as AS/RS machines, shuttle systems or mobile racks optimize space and speed. But they often interface with human workstations or conveyors. These transitions where goods are passed from machine to person are hotspots for crushing and shearing risks. In brownfield environments, where systems are retrofitted into tight layouts, it’s especially important to prevent access to hazardous areas and design clear and safe traffic zones.
Achieving safety for automation and robotics
Robots are revolutionizing how we move and handle goods. They speed up picking, improve precision, and run non-stop. But where machines and people meet, there’s risk. High speeds, heavy loads and tight spaces increase the probability of accidents. That’s why safety must be built into every robotic application not added as an afterthought.
Solutions to optimize your warehouse
Robotic systems boost flow and precision. But safety gaps appear when people need to step in, to service a conveyor, solve a picking issue or restock a bin. Axelent helps you close those gaps without slowing down your operation.
Our solutions include:
- Impact protection barriers to prevent collisions and protect structures
- Clear separation between people and machinery, guard fencing with interlocks keeps people out of danger zones
- Awareness barriers gently guide people away from needlessly entering robotic collaboration areas
- In areas where mobile robots roam, our barriers and zoning solutions ensure both protection and efficiency
How Axelent helps you stay safe
At Axelent, we don’t just sell fencing. We build modular safety systems that support automation without compromising on flow, uptime or flexibility. Our solutions are fully compliant with international safety standards like ISO 10218-1/-2 and ANSI RIA 15.06 for robots, ISO 3691-4 for mobile automation, and ANSI/RIA R15.08 in the USA.
Get in touch with us
Any questions about warehouse automation safety? Do you want to discuss your project or get tailored advice? Our safety specialists are here to guide you every step of the way. Axelent helps you create safety that works in sync with your robotics. Send us your layout and we’ll help you design a solution that protects your people without slowing down the process.
