Figure AI: Enhancing Workplace Safety with Humanoid Robots

The Critical Need for Safety in Humanoid Robotics

The imperative of safety is frequently underestimated amidst the rapid development and deployment of humanoid robots in professional environments. As major companies – including Amazon, Mercedes, and BMW – announce pilot programs for these robots in factories and warehouses, discussions concerning worker protection are often overshadowed by promotional enthusiasm.

A robotics company based in the Bay Area is actively working to address this deficiency.

Figure AI's New Safety Initiative

Figure AI revealed on Tuesday the establishment of a Center for the Advancement of Humanoid Safety. This dedicated, in-house division will concentrate exclusively on the subject of robotic safety. Rob Gruendel, formerly a safety engineer at Amazon Robotics and now leading this project, publicized the plans through a LinkedIn announcement.

Previous generations of factory and warehouse automation tackled safety concerns by physically isolating robots with protective barriers. Later solutions incorporated technological advancements, such as sophisticated computer vision systems, software from Veo Robotics, and a specialized safety vest developed by Amazon to mitigate collisions between robots and personnel.

Amazon’s wearable safety device is intended for internal use only and is unlikely to be available elsewhere. Despite this technology, the company continues to employ protective cages for many of its robotic systems. Veo Robotics, in the meantime, was acquired by Symbotic in 2024, which subsequently assumed control of Walmart’s robotics operations.

Unique Safety Challenges of Humanoid Robots

While valued for their versatility, multi-functionality, and integration capabilities within existing facilities, the humanoid form factor presents novel safety challenges. A key advantage of these robots is their intended operation alongside human workers. However, their substantial metallic bodies, moving freely within industrial spaces, pose a risk of injury through potential collisions.

Organizations focused on workplace safety, such as the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), are currently playing catch-up in terms of automation safety regulations. Currently, there are no “specific OSHA standards for the robotics industry,” as stated by the federal agency. Addressing this broader issue is crucial, but regulations specifically targeting humanoid robots are particularly urgent.

Figure AI is directly responding to this regulatory gap.

“We recently completed a formal plan with our OSHA-recognized independent testing laboratory to certify our robot’s battery, functional safety control system, and electrical system to established industrial standards,” Gruendel explained in his announcement.

Industry-Wide Focus on Humanoid Robot Safety

Melonee Wise, founder of Fetch Robotics, has prioritized the topic of humanoid safety since joining Agility Robotics as chief technology officer in 2023.

“Safety with any humanoid robot operating in this environment is not guaranteed,” Wise stated during a panel discussion at last year’s Automate conference. “There isn’t a readily available emergency stop for [Tesla’s] Optimus, nor for many other [humanoid robots], which directly contradicts existing safety standards. It’s evident that many companies are not prioritizing this aspect.”

The establishment of the Center for the Advancement of Humanoid Safety represents a significant advancement in this area for Figure.

“We understand that the public often relies on technology experts to assess the safety of AI-controlled robots,” Gruendel wrote. “We aim to communicate directly with our customers, providing detailed testing and reporting on the robot’s stability – both stationary and in motion. We will assess human and animal detection capabilities, safe AI behaviors, and navigation systems to prevent injuries. We welcome feedback from our customers regarding further safety testing of Figure 02 and future models.”

Transparency and Future Implications

Figure intends to release quarterly reports detailing their progress and providing greater transparency into the testing process. These reports will encompass testing procedures and resolutions for identified hazards.

“We will openly share both our successes and our failures,” Gruendel affirmed.

These findings will contribute to closing the gap in safety protocols and pave the way for the next phase of robotic integration: bringing robots into the home.

As more companies pursue the deployment of humanoid robots in residential settings, robust safety standards will become increasingly vital.