What is a risk assessment in robotics, and what categories are typically assessed?

• A. A systematic evaluation of hazards (mechanical, electrical, ergonomic, automation safety), with risk levels and mitigation measures.
• B. A measurement of robot speed and accuracy
• C. A financial audit of project costs
• D. A software version check

Answer: (A)

Risk assessment in robotics is a systematic process to identify hazards, assess the likelihood and severity of harm, and implement controls to reduce risk during robot operation. It covers multiple risk domains that could affect safety, not just how well the robot performs.

The categories typically assessed include mechanical hazards from moving parts and pinch points, electrical hazards from power systems and control circuitry, ergonomic hazards related to human-robot interaction and repetitive tasks, and automation safety hazards that arise from how the robot and its control systems operate together. The process also looks at how the environment, maintenance activities, and software or control logic contribute to risk. After identifying hazards, the assessment assigns risk levels and proposes mitigation measures such as engineering controls, administrative procedures, or personal protective equipment, while also documenting residual risk.

In contrast, options focusing on speed and accuracy measure performance, not safety risk; financial audits address cost control, not safety; and software version checks relate to configuration management, not hazard analysis.