New technology, new risks: preparing for a new breed of construction plant

The use of automated bricklayers will be no stranger to us than the first wheeled prototype of the hydraulic excavator was to those in the mid-20th Century.

Industry relies on evolving methods, and the increased use of robotics in the construction industry can save time, energy and money, allowing more supervisory roles that could even reduce the risk of injury.

But this new technology, such as SAM (semi-automated mason), also needs care and attention if it’s to work at full capacity and be protected from theft and damage. There’s also the safety of those who work around robotics to be considered, as two high-profile incidents have shed light on the possible dangers of interacting with machinery.

Mike Green, Underwriting Manager for Zurich’s Commercial Propositions, notes, “With developments in technology, we are seeing more and more robots that can move autonomously around a workplace.

“This introduces a new dimension of risk, as companies will have to anticipate not just how their robots will behave, but also how their employees might react in different scenarios. For example, if a robot experienced a mechanical failure, would employees be tempted to fix the robot themselves in order to avoid downtime, and what might the risks be in that scenario?”

While there is no specific guideline around human and robot interaction, health and safety law requires all employers to take reasonable measures to ensure the safety of their employees at work, which may involve specific risk assessments to help identify potential dangers.

Another step might include caging off the robotic technology, ensuring only those who are qualified can access the equipment if there’s a problem, and reducing the speed at which it operates.

As always, maintenance has a pivotal role in not only keeping machinery and plant, including robotics, working at peak performance but also ensuring it’s safe to use to those operating and working around it.

By notifying your insurer or broker of any new piece of equipment used in your business, you can make sure it’s covered and help avoid underinsurance.

At MCM we use our expertise to help you obtain a financially viable, efficient insurance package, at no extra cost to you.

 

By Steve Whetham, Director of MCM insurance

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