Automated palletizer punctured a bear-spray can at an Amazon warehouse, hospitalizing two dozen workers (2018)
[INJURY]Dec 5, 2018 · Amazon · Amazon Astro · Seattle
Failure Mode
INJURY
Event Date
Dec 5, 2018
Primary Entity
Amazon
Robotic Platform
Amazon Astro
Jurisdiction / Location
Seattle
Audit Standard
Physical State Verified
Incident Abstract & Audit Findings
On Dec 5 2018 an automated palletizing robot at an Amazon fulfillment center in Robbinsville Township, New Jersey punctured a 9 oz can of concentrated bear repellent, releasing capsaicin into the facility; about 24 workers were hospitalized (one in critical condition) and more than 50 treated on scene. OSHA investigated. A novel robot-handling hazard distinct from struck-by injuries.
System & Fleet Architecture
Operating Manufacturer
Hardware Platform
Operational Sectors
Primary Sources & Evidentiary Filings
- Inspect Filing
https://abcnews.go.com/US/24-amazon-workers-hospital-bear-repellent-accident/story?id=59625712
https://abcnews.go.com/US/24-amazon-workers-hospital-bear-repellent-accident/story?id=59625712
- Inspect Filing
https://www.osha.gov/ords/imis/accidentsearch.html
https://www.osha.gov/ords/imis/accidentsearch.html
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Details
Incident Context & FAQ
What happened in Automated palletizer punctured a bear-spray can at an Amazon warehouse, hospitalizing two dozen workers (2018)?
On Dec 5 2018 an automated palletizing robot at an Amazon fulfillment center in Robbinsville Township, New Jersey punctured a 9 oz can of concentrated bear repellent, releasing capsaicin into the facility; about 24 workers were hospitalized (one in critical condition) and more than 50 treated on scene. OSHA investigated. A novel robot-handling hazard distinct from struck-by injuries.
When did this incident occur?
The incident is recorded as occurring on December 5, 2018 on the DEPLOY registry. The date reflects the underlying real-world event, not the registry record's creation date.
What robot was involved in Automated palletizer punctured a bear-spray can at an Amazon warehouse, hospitalizing two dozen workers (2018)?
Amazon Astro by Amazon is the recorded robot involved in this incident at Seattle.
Has anyone responded to Automated palletizer punctured a bear-spray can at an Amazon warehouse, hospitalizing two dozen workers (2018)?
No responses to this incident are recorded on the DEPLOY registry. Operators, manufacturers, or affected parties can submit responses to the editorial team; absence is not a guarantee no response was issued.
What is the current status of Automated palletizer punctured a bear-spray can at an Amazon warehouse, hospitalizing two dozen workers (2018)?
This incident is an active record on the DEPLOY registry; no retraction or correction has been issued.