How Robots Could Contribute to Injuries in Tampa Workplaces

Advocates of robotics in the workplace claim that increased reliance on automation could take humans out of dangerous situations. However, robots may also create new hazards for workers who remain behind after most of their peers have been replaced. If you have been injured by a robot at a Tampa workplace, you may already be aware of these threats.

Robot Fatalities Have Been Occurring for Decades 

Although many assume that robotics in the workplace is a new concept, the truth is that people have been dying as a result of this technology since at least the early 90s. Existing robotic technology in the workplace includes autonomous vehicles (drones), powered exoskeletons, and mobile robots that can move through the workplace like humans. Robotics is particularly well-established in manufacturing, such as the automotive world.

That being said, the adoption of robotics across new industries is accelerating. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that robots could soon replace offshore oil rig workers, pesticide-spraying pilots, healthcare workers, and delivery drivers (including truckers).=

What Kinds of Hazards do Robotics Pose in the Workplace?

Robots pose various hazards in the workplace. This machinery can cause crush-related injuries and struck-by injuries. For example, a robot might accidentally crush a worker with its robotic arm. A mobile robot could also strike or run over a worker on the factory floor. The CDC notes that robots could pose electrocution hazards.

Many robots rely on hydraulic systems, and these components can cause unique hazards for workers. For example, a hydraulic line could rupture, sending high-pressure streams and hoses flying into the workers’ faces.

Can I Sue the Robot Manufacturer?

After a workplace injury, the most obvious course of action is to file a workers’ compensation claim in Florida. However, an injured worker might also want to consider a personal injury lawsuit against the robot manufacturer. If you can prove that the robot malfunctioned in some way, you could step outside the limitations of the workers’ comp system and potentially recover more compensation.

While workers’ comp only covers two-thirds of lost income, a personal injury lawsuit covers 100 percent of your missed wages. Perhaps most importantly, a workers’ comp claim does not cover non-economic damages like emotional distress and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). On the other hand, a personal injury lawsuit allows you to recover these non-economic, psychological damages. This can increase your total compensation by a considerable amount.

Can a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer in Tampa Help After a Robotics Injury? 

If you were injured by a piece of robotic machinery at work, you should consider contacting an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer in Tampa. These legal professionals can help you pursue the compensation you deserve, especially if you are struggling with a denied claim. Contact The Franco Law Firm at 813-872-0929 to learn more about the next potential steps.

Sources: 

ccohs.ca/oshanswers/safety_haz/robots_cobots.pdf

cdc.gov/niosh/robotics/about/index.html