The Workers Union has for many years highlighted the importance of clear regulation, guidance and oversight when introducing advanced technology into UK workplaces. We have consistently argued that innovation must go hand in hand with worker safety, proper training and employer accountability.
That is why the announcement from the Health and Safety Executive and the Regulatory Innovation Office is a welcome and positive development for workers and businesses alike.
The two organisations have launched a joint project aimed at supporting the safe and responsible adoption of robotics across UK workplaces. Announced during London Tech Week on 10 June 2026, the initiative has been developed alongside industry partners to provide greater clarity around regulatory requirements and encourage wider adoption of robotic technology.
As part of the programme, HSE will work with Automate UK and the Manufacturing Technology Centre to develop practical guidance on the use of collaborative robots, commonly known as cobots. These machines are specifically designed to work alongside human workers rather than operating in isolated environments.
The first phase of the project, expected to launch this summer, will focus on providing clear regulatory guidance for businesses using cobots. The objective is to remove uncertainty and give employers confidence that robotics can be introduced safely while remaining compliant with existing health and safety requirements.
Andrew Curran CBE, Director of Science and Chief Scientific Adviser at HSE, said:
“We recognise how guidance and advice can give employers the confidence to innovate safely and provide a platform for new technology to improve productivity and enable growth.”
He added:
“We understand that despite there being no barrier to adoption in health and safety law there is a fear of non-compliance, which is limiting adoption. Therefore, we are committed to working with the Regulatory Innovation Office and industry partners to deliver the first joint HSE and industry guidance on the use of cobots to address this barrier and improve business confidence.”
What this means for UK workers
For many workers, robotics and automation can create concerns about job security and workplace safety. However, when implemented correctly, collaborative robotics can help reduce repetitive manual tasks, improve productivity, minimise exposure to hazardous environments and lower the risk of workplace injuries.
The Workers Union believes technology should support workers rather than replace them. Successful adoption requires:
- Clear safety standards.
- Comprehensive risk assessments.
- Appropriate worker training.
- Meaningful consultation with employees.
- Ongoing monitoring of workplace risks.
- Human oversight of automated systems.
As robotics becomes increasingly common across manufacturing, warehousing, logistics, engineering and other sectors, employers must ensure that safety remains the priority.
The Workers Union says
“The Workers Union has long advocated for greater clarity surrounding emerging workplace technologies. We welcome this partnership between HSE, the Regulatory Innovation Office and industry leaders. Innovation can deliver significant benefits for both workers and employers, but only when introduced responsibly, safely and with appropriate safeguards in place.
Workers must remain at the centre of technological change. Clear guidance, robust training and strong safety standards will be essential to ensuring that robotics enhances workplaces rather than creating new risks.”
This latest initiative represents an important step towards building confidence in the safe use of workplace robotics and AI demonstrates that innovation and worker protection can successfully work together. Google’s own guidance for instance, highlights the importance of expertise, trustworthiness, relevance and real-world experience when evaluating information quality, principles that are equally relevant when developing practical workplace safety guidance.
