Use of logistics automation inside healthcare facilities poses regulatory challenges due to ever evolving technological advances. Improving patient and staff safety along with enhancing operational efficiencies are compelling owners to consider use of logistics automation earlier in planning processes. Why is this? It is due to simultaneous and powerful disruptors such as energy crisis, geopolitical issues, labor challenges, pandemics, and natural disasters. Owners and planning teams are looking for innovative ways to improve patient and staff safety while reducing costs by improving operational efficiencies.
The key intent of this session is to discuss the myriad of regulatory challenges inherent in considering Logistics Automation using Robotics and AI. With over 200 plus Vendors offering various technologies to transfer materials inside facilities, logistics automation is becoming an increasingly common consideration for healthcare facilities. With rapid emergence of technologies (Examples: Automated/Autonomous Guided Vehicles, Automated Waste Removal systems, and Pneumatic tube systems), the need for regulatory guidelines and their interpretation during planning is particularly important. Recent editions of NFPA 101 Life Safety Code have had many revisions in the chapters regarding use of automated waste removal systems and we will be addressing that content.