For those that have long opposed the regular use of robots in the workplace, citing their inability to use human discretion, here’s your ammunition. A robot grabbed a man and crushed him against a metal plate, causing fatal injuries.
According to the AP, the robot’s malfunction was likely due to human error, which doomed the 22-year old employee. Normally, the robot is programmed to grab parts and manipulate them in a confined area. The individual died at the plant before he was able to be rushed to a hospital.
Prosecutors are still determining whether or not charges should be filed, and if so, against whom, and there is an ongoing investigation into the matter. Chances are, if criminal charges aren’t filed, Volkswagen has a massive lawsuit coming their way from the young man’s family.
