American factory worker Robert Williams became the first human to be killed by a robot on this day in 1979 — man crushed by a robot’s mechanical arm at the Ford plant in Flat Rock

American factory worker Robert Williams became the first human to be killed by a robot on this day in 1979 —  man crushed by a robot’s mechanical arm at the Ford plant in Flat Rock
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Verdict: In 1979, Robert Williams tragically became the first recorded human fatality caused by a robot, highlighting early workplace safety concerns with automation.

Robotic Arm

⚡ Quick Hits

  • The incident occurred at a Ford plant in Flat Rock, Michigan.
  • The death raised awareness about the potential dangers of industrial robots.
  • The event spurred advancements in safety protocols and robot design.

Remembering Robert Williams: The First Human Fatality Caused by a Robot

Today marks a somber anniversary in the history of technology and workplace safety. On this day in 1979, American factory worker Robert Williams became the first human to be killed by a robot. The tragic incident occurred at the Ford plant in Flat Rock, Michigan, where Williams was crushed by a robot's mechanical arm. This event is widely regarded as the first documented case of a human death directly caused by a robot. The event highlights the importance of safety measures when using robots.


*Source Intel: Read Original*