EM Richland Operations Office (RL) contractor Central Plateau Cleanup Company (CPCCo) is evaluating new robotic technology that could further improve worker safety at the Hanford Site.
Office of Environmental Management
May 18, 2021
minute read time
Taking the “dog” for a walk: Central Plateau Cleanup Company Radiation Area Remedial Action Manager Roy Plunkett tries his hand at the controls of a four-legged, remotely operated robot that aims to improve worker safety and increase productivity at Hanford.
RICHLAND, Wash. – EM Richland Operations Office (RL) contractor Central Plateau Cleanup Company (CPCCo) is evaluating new robotic technology that could further improve worker safety at the Hanford Site.
CPCCo leadership and field work supervisors recently conducted a demonstration of a remotely controlled, four-legged unit — a robotic “dog” — that could help workers access difficult-to-reach areas or keep them away from potentially hazardous materials.
“Demonstrations like this are a great opportunity for us to get up close and personal with emerging technologies, so we can start to think about how they might be used in the workplace to improve safety and drive productivity,” said Andy Wiborg, RL operations activities team lead, projects and facilities division.
Remote-controlled robotics are often used at Hanford to reduce worker exposure to some of the higher-risk elements associated with site cleanup. While this isn’t the first time this type of technology has been evaluated, this particular unit has some unique abilities that can come in handy navigating Hanford’s challenging work environment.
“What’s great about this unit is the quadra-ped, or four feet, can navigate some of the terrain that machines with wheels or tracks can’t,” said Tom Bratvold, CPCCo inner area end states integration manager. “It can get into the desert environment and some of the other terrains we see out on the Hanford Site where we have encountered some issues with other robotic units.”
The applications for this technology are wide ranging, but one of the biggest benefits is it allows planners to design work packages that offer more safety to workers.
“By using these machines, we can keep our workers out of harm’s way while continuing on our path to reduce risk on Hanford’s Central Plateau,” Bratvold said.
To receive the latest news and updates about the Office of Environmental Management, submit your e-mail address.