Incident 2: Warehouse robot ruptures can of bear spray and injures workers
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Taxonomy DetailsFull Description
On December 5, 2018, a robot punctured a can of bear spray in Amazon's fulfillment center in Robbinsville, New Jersey. Amazon's spokesman stated that "an automated machine punctured a 9-oz can of bear repellent." The punctured can released capsaicin, an irritant, into the air. Several dozen workers were exposed to the fumes, causing symptoms including trouble breathing and a burning sensation in the eyes and throat. 24 workers were hospitalized, and one was sent to intensive care and intubated.
Short Description
Twenty-four Amazon workers in New Jersey were hospitalized after a robot punctured a can of bear repellent spray in a warehouse.
Severity
Moderate
Harm Type
Harm to physical health/safety, Harm to physical property
AI System Description
An automated machine operating within an Amazon fulfillment center.
Sector of Deployment
Transportation and storage
Relevant AI functions
Unclear
AI Applications