Citation

Karwowski W, Rahimi M, Mihaly T. J. Occup. Accid. 1988; 10(3): 217-233.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1988, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Karwowski, W., Rahimi, M. and Mihaly, T., 1988. Effects of computerized automation and robotics on safety performance of a manufacturing plant. Journal of Occupational Accidents, 10: 217-233.Safety performance of a Kentucky-based appliance manufacturer was compared before and after computer automation of the assembly process. Specifically, incidence rates were calculated for one-year pre- and post-automation periods for each of the following ANSI classifications: nature of injury, part of body, source of injury, accident type, hazardous condition, and unsafe act. After automation, incidence rates increased for employees working on the main assembly line. Operators of automated equipment had the greatest percentage of dispensary visits, possibly as a result of their efforts to meet production requirements. The post-automation plant environment created new hazards to maintenance personnel. However, the plant modifications improved the material handling procedures: the number of employees exposed to debris was reduced and fewer accidents related to materials handling occurred. This study points out that timely and accurate analysis of workplace accidents and injuries is essential for identifying and preventing industrial accidents. Furthermore, the present investigation reinforces the need for an efficient and thorough record-keeping system that includes categories for non-traditional equipment such as robots.