SUPPLEMENT FEATURE Robotics
Work smarter, not harder: Launch of the BARA Certified Robot Integrator Scheme
A
s UK robot sales fall by 15 per cent from last year, the British Automation & Robot Association (BARA) alongside the Robotic
Industries Association (RIA) are launching a new Certified Integrator Scheme, aiming to improve the quality and health of the industry, as companies strive for certification. According to the latest lFR World Robotics report, the UK’s robot density (number of robots per 10,000 employees in non-automotive sectors) reached just 42 last year, alongside a 15 per cent drop in robot sales, compared to 2017. When set side-by-side with the rest of Europe, it seems the UK is becoming less and less of a contender within the industry, as frontrunner, Germany, achieves a very comfortable 191 in robot density. An explanation for this shortcoming appears
to be largely down to culture. With a generally hesitant attitude to risk and a preference for ‘low-cost’ labour, the UK could be setting itself up for a further fall, with Brexit threatening the jobs of foreign workers and the country’s current productivity being potentially outdone by its European counterparts. With a trade skills shortage and a somewhat
apprehensive perception of robotics, it is important that end-users are armed with knowledge and expertise in terms of working alongside robots, so as not to fall behind with the ever-evolving industry that is automation. BARA has provided opportunities for this in the form of ‘how to’ guides, access to independent consultants, as well as the newly-launched Certified Robot Integrator Scheme. So far, 36 integrators are now certified in North America, with Switzerland set to launch the certification scheme also. The scheme is a sure-fire way for an integrator company to differentiate themselves and prove their capabilities amongst others. Developed with input from both robot end- users and system integrators, the certification scheme is set to increase trust levels and ultimately build stronger relationships between integrator and end-user, with Tony Peterson, manufacturing engineering manager of Leatherman Tool Group, commenting: “The RIA Certified Robot Integrator we worked with has proven through the solutions they have provided that they can consistently deliver results.” The detailed on-site audit will verify
capabilities and experience, with users required to demonstrate clear understanding of the robot safety standards, at every stage of integration and use. The audits will be undertaken by qualified MTC and AMRC personnel, in order to only certify the highest calibre of robot integrators. The launch of the BARA Certified Robot
Integrator Scheme has a clear overall objective: to increase the capacity for robot integration across the UK, by building standards and enhancing the overall market with new end- users selecting the right integrators for their company’s needs.
automationmagazine.co.uk Robotics & Motion Control | February 2019 S5 Where the automation industry is concerned,
investment is required in order to match flexibility shown across the world, and robotic solutions can provide just that, if end-users are given the means to select the best. BARA has been the voice of automation for 38 years (having previously being known as BRA) and is well-respected within industry, having formed strong relations with associations like EAMA, MTA and Gambica, as well as the British Government. Activities such as conferences,
exhibitions and seminars are available to members of BARA.
British Automation & Robot Association (BARA) Tel: 020 8773 8111
Web:
www.bara.org.uk
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