The Future of Robot Safety: Standards That Shape Automation

Perhaps no one has done more to promote industrial robot safety than Roberta Nelson Shea. For decades, Universal Robotics’ global technical compliance officer has been a tireless advocate for maintaining automation safeguarding for human workers. This episode explores how robot safety standards have evolved and why they’re critical to the future of automation. From cages and compliance to collaborative robots and humanoids, Brian and Roberta explore how safety and productivity can work in tandem.

Key Moments
00:00 | Why Safety Matters
02:29 | Life Between Denmark & the U.S.
04:12 | Productivity & Safety Together
06:00 | Robots vs. Traditional Machines
09:02 | Safety Standards vs. Regulations
12:48 | Advances in Tech Lower Costs
16:26 | Beyond Cages: Modern Safeguarding
24:46 | Humanoid Robots & Stability
33:49 | Robotics’ Safety-First Approach
38:41 | From Resistance to Embracing Robots
42:43 | Learning Jobs Firsthand
46:43 | General Purpose vs. Specific Robots
49:03 | Why Roberta Stays in Robotics
53:25 | Closing Thoughts

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