Mitigating safety challenges in human-robot collaboration: The role of human competence

Abstract

The integration of collaborative robots (cobots) into manufacturing has facilitated the development of flexible and intelligent factories. However, safety concerns emerge when humans and cobots operate in close proximity within shared spaces. This study examines the impact of cobot adoption on industrial injuries and the role of human competence in mitigating these risks. Drawing on data from South Korea's manufacturing sector, a global leader in robot deployment, our empirical analysis reveals that firms using cobots experience a rise in industrial accidents. The proportion of long-term employees and job rotation reduces injury rates, while multifunctional training correlates with an increase in injuries. To minimize cobot-related workplace injuries, we recommend securing skilled personnel, fostering competence through strategic task rotations, and implementing targeted training programs. These findings highlight the importance of a socio-technical systems perspective to address the complex interactions between technology, human factors, and organizational dynamics in workplace safety. This study also provides practical implications for enhancing human competence to reduce human errors and prevent cobot-related accidents.