Articles

Automation and robotics in emergencies

How Automation Technology Ensures Operational Continuity – Even Under Security Threats

In an era where industries face not only business challenges but also complex security realities, one critical question rises to the top of the agenda:
How can manufacturing and operational continuity be maintained—even during missile alerts, air raid sirens, or Home Front Command restrictions?

The answer lies in technology.

More and more factories are recognizing that investing in automation systems is not just a move toward efficiency—it’s a strategic decision to safeguard operations, ensure safety, and protect human lives.

Automation doesn’t necessarily replace workers. Instead, integrating automated processes into production lines allows manufacturers to operate more flexibly, efficiently, and safely. Rather than shutting down entire lines during emergencies, automated systems continue to function based on pre-defined programs, make decisions using smart data, and trigger alerts when needed. In this way, even during crises, output, stability, and employee safety are maintained.

What Solutions Are Available?

Solutions such as industrial robots, collaborative robots (cobots), automated conveyors, vacuum lifting systems, sensors, and remote control units are all integral components of the modern automation landscape. These technologies enable factories to operate intelligently, safely, and continuously—even when human presence is limited or must be evacuated in an emergency.

Robots Keep Producing – Even When Workers Head to Shelters

At a large plastics factory in southern Israel, frequently exposed to rocket attacks, a strategic decision was made: reduce reliance on manual labor. An automated robotic arm was installed for continuous and precise assembly tasks. As a result, even when workers had to evacuate to shelters, the robot continued operating according to its pre-programmed routine.
Robots can now handle a wide range of tasks—from packaging and palletizing to welding and quality checks.

Cobots: Human-Machine Collaboration—Even in Emergencies

Collaborative robots (cobots) offer a unique combination of safety, flexibility, and efficiency. Designed to work side-by-side with humans, cobots automatically switch to autonomous operation when workers leave the area.

At a pharmaceutical plant in central Israel, cobots were deployed for sorting and packaging. When a missile alert sounded, employees evacuated within seconds—while the cobots kept working uninterrupted on the production line.

In another example, at a food processing facility in northern Israel, a cobot was installed for remote-controlled quality inspection from a home computer. This solution reduced worker exposure to risk while maintaining high standards of quality and monitoring.

Smart Logistics: Conveyors and Vacuum Lifting in Real Time

Even during emergencies, order fulfillment, transport, and logistics must go on—but they require smart solutions.
Automated conveyors keep product lines moving even without staff. Vacuum lifting and gripping systems enable the handling of heavy pallets and packages without human effort. These operations are performed autonomously, safely, and quickly—minimizing physical strain and human dependency.

Remote Monitoring & Control: Technology That Brings Peace of Mind

At an electronics company in northern Israel, an advanced control system was implemented, operable via app and computer. This allows operations engineers to manage critical processes from a protected shelter or remote location.
The system collects real-time data from smart sensors and process controllers, analyzes anomalies, and automatically sends alerts to mobile devices in case of malfunctions or production halts.

Fewer Workers on the Floor = Lower Risk to Human Life

Advanced automation reduces the need for physical presence on production lines. Technologies such as linear motion systems, cobots, smart compressors with remote monitoring, and advanced controllers all support manufacturing processes that operate with minimal human intervention.

While in routine times this equates to improved efficiency, in emergencies, it can mean saving lives.

The Israeli Advantage: Innovation Born from Crisis

Israel’s unique security situation has made its industry more resilient, creative, and prepared. Israeli companies are developing emergency-ready solutions that address a variety of extreme conditions—such as power outages, network disruptions, remote access needs, and generator-based operations. These systems are built to function even when parts of the infrastructure are down, placing Israel at the forefront of global innovation in emergency-ready automation.

Investing in Automation = Operational and Safety Responsibility

For factory managers, engineers, and industry leaders, automation is no longer a luxury—it’s a key component of modern risk management. Whether it’s robots, cobots, conveyors, control systems, or smart sensors—each technology helps ensure stability, safety, and rapid response, even in uncertain conditions.

In Summary:

🔹 Robots replace manual tasks during routine times—and continue working in emergencies
🔹 Cobots enable human-machine collaboration—and keep operating autonomously when needed
🔹 Smart conveyors and vacuum lifters replace manual handling—even under threat
🔹 Remote control and monitoring provide operational peace of mind—even from protected shelters
🔹 Israel is a global leader in developing industrial solutions for extreme scenarios

Automation is not just a technological solution—it is a vital tool for safeguarding life, production, and economic resilience under threat.

Share
Inquiring for more details?
Enter your contact info, and we'll get in touch.
Fill in your details below and we’ll be in touch with more information
Fill in your details below and we’ll be in touch with more information
Skip to content