Automation has rocked supply chains with tangible benefits such as decreased error rates and faster employee onboarding. However, along with it comes a shared fear that robotics will soon eradicate countless jobs, leaving a trail of unemployed warehouse workers with nowhere to go. Nevertheless, studies in the Sociological Research for a Dynamic World showed that only 14% of surveyed individuals reported seeing their jobs replaced by a robot. Additional studies conducted at the University of Illinois further dispel the myth, stating robots are not likely to replace 1 million jobs in the near future.
Nevertheless, about two-thirds of Americans believe robots will take their jobs. While automated systems will certainly impact most industries and entry-level jobs, decision-makers and technology developers agree that robots will not replace workers but empower them by:
- Reducing repetitive tasks linked to burnout – Warehouse labor turnover rates have remained high within the past year. After struggling to find qualified talent, distribution centers also struggle to retain talent, incurring high replacement and training costs every time a new employee must be hired.
Warehouse robotics alleviate worker stress by automating repetitive tasks such as data entry and stock counting. Workers are then able to focus on their tasks with more ease as robots simplify tasks for less stress. This is best exemplified by modern voice checklist systems, which leverage automated voice instructions and hands-free scanning to guide workers through a step-by-step maintenance process. These systems reduce the risks of errors while giving teams more time to focus on the tasks at hand.
- Freeing up workers to evaluate real-time data – Studies estimate warehouse workers can travel up to 14 miles a day throughout the warehouse. In addition to increasing risks of burnout, long travel time takes away from other more pressing tasks such as demand forecasting and inventory tracking.
Automated data capture incorporated in modern fixed industrial scanners and machine vision arms teams with actionable insights concerning your workflows. Instead of spending time walking between aisles and conducting manual tasks, workers can take more time to analyze incoming data to create proactive responses to supply chain trends and demand. When paired with a reliable connectivity network, automated systems can empower real-time actionable insights for faster response times.
- Protecting workers from dangerous and straining workflows – While they’ve set the standard for fulfillment speed, Amazon warehouses have also reported increases in injury rates as high as 64%. Working quickly to meet shipping dates and quotas, warehouse workers risk muscle strain, collisions, and dangerous levels of stress. OSHA inspections have cited the “pace of work” as a hazard in large-scale warehouses.
Speed is vital to keep up with high customer demands, yet fast-paced workflows pose a greater injury risk. Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) and Automated Guided Vehicles (AVGs) are designed to lift and carry heavy weights, protecting worker health. Moreover, embedded sensors prevent collisions while optimizing pick paths for faster, safe fulfillment.
It’s safe to say that robotics will continue to reshape the face of modern warehousing. However, it’s vital to understand how future-forward systems can strengthen your workforce to properly integrate systems that complement your company goals. Evaluate your current workflows with our team to see how you can equip your operations with solutions set to thrive in the digital age.