Liquid finishing myth: does automation replace workers?

Are you considering automating part of your liquid finishing process, but are you concerned about the effect on your workforce? Discover how automation can positively impact your workforce.
 

At first glance, you might think automation just means people get replaced by machines. But closer inspection of the automation-versus-workforce challenge proves automation is beneficial for your workforce in many ways. Find out how it actually changes people’s working environment, job content and skill set.
 

Create a safer workplace

Think of the health risks workers face when working in a paint line. For example, they risk exposure to toxic fumes or injuries from repetitive motions. Automated systems can do these hazardous tasks instead. This increases workplace safety for your workers. And that leads to less worker fall-out and a decrease in associated costs. Meanwhile, you keep your production running without downtime, even when your workers punch out for the day.
 

Make manual and repetitive tasks obsolete

Monotonous manual work and repetitive tasks lead to boredom, a higher risk of errors and lower job satisfaction. This is especially important in times of labour shortages when the barrier to shift to the competition is very low. So, investing in automation of repetitive tasks increases worker happiness and reduces unwanted downtime.
 

Give the opportunity to learn new skills

In some workplaces, the implementation of automated systems can create new jobs, because when you implement automation you can train your workers to operate the new equipment. This also increases job satisfaction as workers who receive training are more likely to stay with their employer. Your productivity and coating quality will also increase as your workforce can spend more time doing more valuable tasks like monitoring, quality control and process control. 

In summary, automation in liquid finishing can make the workplace safer, can relieve employees of tedious and repetitive tasks and can lead to new skills and tasks for your operators. If implemented thoughtfully, automation can lead to a more productive, innovative and satisfying work environment. And that can only be good for your business.