A safe alternative to forklifts
In the fast-paced world of modern manufacturing, the pressure to increase operational efficiency, improve quality, and expedite production time is ever-present. However, this drive for optimization should never compromise the safety of employees.
Unfortunately, workplace injuries occur all too often, posing a significant threat to employee welfare, workflow, and the company's bottom line. Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs), such as those offered by MiR, present a compelling solution. As one of the most effective forklift alternatives, AMRs can significantly enhance operational efficiency while prioritizing safety.
In short
Communicate your automation plans
If you describe the process and leave room for questions, employees are less likely to feel threatened or fearful about the change but instead engaged and interested.
Involve your employees in the process
Making your employees part of the process is the best way to smoothening your upcoming path to automation. Information gathered from employees is an excellent resource for deploying the robots most effectively.
Make the process enjoyable
Let your employees know that the future of work is not robots that are here to replace them, but rather that they will help and work alongside people, increasing efficiency but also safety.
Train your employees to work with the robot
Training your employees with the robot will help them to understand the robots and processes better. It will also give them new and valuable skills in their career
Familiarization with the robot
There are different ways of making your employees perceive the robots as part of the staff instead of a threat.
What can you use instead of a forklift?
While forklifts will continue to play a role in many operations, integrating AMRs into the workflow can significantly enhance safety and efficiency.
Autonomous Mobile Robots are emerging as a preferred solution, with 63% of manufacturers stating that AMRs would help improve worker safety.
Choosing an Autonomous Mobile Robot as a forklift alternative brings a host of benefits:
Collaborative and Safe: AMRs, like the MiR1000, are designed to work alongside humans safely. They can automatically pick up, transport, and deliver pallets through dynamic environments, reducing human exposure to riskier tasks.
High Payload Capacity: The MiR1350 can handle a payload of up to 1,350 kg (2,976 lbs), making it a robust solution for heavy-duty tasks.
Advanced Navigation: Equipped with two laser scanners, 3D cameras, and proximity sensors, AMRs can navigate autonomously and safely around obstacles.
Reduced Human Error: Unlike forklifts, which rely on human operation, AMRs are programmed to anticipate their surroundings well in advance, reducing the risk of accidents caused by human error.
Improved Workplace Safety: By taking on repetitive, risk-prone work, AMRs help reduce the risk of collisions and contribute to a safer work environment.
Why is it crucial to use forklift alternatives?
A recent survey of top-level decision-makers in global manufacturing revealed that 72% view collisions and other shop floor accidents as significant business challenges.
This concern is not unfounded. In the US alone, there is a 90% probability of a forklift being involved in a serious injury or fatality accident over its lifetime.
The Occupational Safety & Health Administration estimates that forklifts account for 61,800 minor injuries and 34,900 serious injuries annually.
These incidents often result in days away from work, and the number of non-fatal injuries has been on the rise since 2016.
Given that a forklift can weigh three times as much as a car (approximately 9,000 pounds or 4082kg), only has front brakes, and can reach speeds of up to 18mph, it's unsurprising that forklift accidents often result in disproportionately severe injuries compared to other workplace incidents.
