Improving safety protocols with automated material handling systems
In high-intensity intralogistics environments, operational safety cannot rely solely on training or supervision: it must be designed, implemented, and monitored through advanced engineering solutions.
Automation applied to material handling – from mobile robots to AS/RS systems – makes it possible to reduce risk exposure, increase event traceability, and standardize critical procedures.
In this article you’ll explore:
- How the principle of safety by design drives the development of automated systems
- Which technologies (cobots, sensors, software) strengthen safety protocols
- Operational and process best practices for integrated risk management
- Tangible benefits for operators, maintenance staff and plant managers
Integrated safety: the principle of safety by design
The concept of safety by design means that safety is not a final addition, but an intrinsic design component. Integrating operator protection already in the development phase of automated systems significantly reduces risk margins.
- Operator-centered engineering: reducing physical strain and preventing incorrect posture through ergonomic design.
- Risk analysis and mitigation: early identification of hazards and definition of technical and operational countermeasures.
- Fail-safe systems: emergency buttons, redundancies, and automated diagnostics against critical failures.
- Intelligent barriers and sensors: devices that automatically stop hazardous movements near operators.
- Maintenance accessibility: designing safe and easily accessible intervention areas, even in the presence of mobile robots such as AGVs/AMRs (read more on how to integrate AGVs/AMRs into brownfield environments here).
Operational best practices for safety
Even in highly automated systems, the human factor remains central. For this reason, it is essential to adopt operational practices that minimize risks and facilitate safe interaction between operators and equipment.
- Staff training: instruction on start-up, emergency, and operational regulations.
- Scheduled maintenance: regular checks on essential components to prevent failures and accidents.
- Physical protection: installation of fences, presence sensors, and automatic stop systems.
- Effective signage: clear visual/auditory signals to identify risk areas and correct behaviours.
Key technologies for safety in automated systems
Detection, control, and human-machine interaction technologies play a crucial role in reducing accidents and improving overall operational safety.
Advanced sensors and detection systems
Use of proximity sensors, laser scanners, and vision systems to detect obstacles, signal anomalies, and automatically activate motion stops.
Emergency stop and redundant infrastructures
Systems designed to immediately halt operations in case of danger, with redundant architectures to ensure reliability.
Collaborative robots (cobots)
Designed to work alongside human operators in complete safety, thanks to sensors and force/contact detection systems.
Monitoring and control software
Integrated platforms that detect anomalies, monitor in real time, and activate predefined safety mechanisms, reducing operational risk. Not just safety: automation also contributes to sustainability goals in smart warehouses. Read our article to learn more.Tangible Safety Benefits of Automation
Integrating automated systems not only boosts productivity but also raises safety standards in a measurable and scalable way.
- Reduction of manual handling accidents thanks to autonomous systems.
- Standardization of operating procedures, eliminating repetitive human errors.
- Control and traceability: real-time data management, incident analysis, and targeted preventive actions.
- Rapid emergency response: systems that automatically halt operations in hazardous situations.
To achieve concrete and lasting benefits, automation must be adopted as part of an integrated strategy involving the entire company ecosystem. It is crucial to combine hardware, software, training, and processes into a comprehensive strategic plan. Design must comply with regulations (e.g., ISO 45001) and involve operational staff from the very beginning to foster a corporate culture of safety.
Conclusion
The use of automated systems in material handling is a strategic lever for raising safety standards. The combination of advanced technology, training, and risk management provides a safe and high-performing work environment.
Discover the Smartlogistix solutions dedicated to automated material handling, designed to enhance operator protection and ensure operational continuity in complex intralogistics environments click here to learn more.
