Manufacturers are improving operator safety through third-party services, such as continuous training form OEMs, risk assessments and new production line approaches from consultants. In addition, digital training at the machine level is increasing operator safety.

Operator safety remains a priority in the food industry. Capex investments in plant infrastructure and modern tools are increasing plant operator safety, and they're coming at the right time. Food brands consider the workforce to be a leading obstacle to growth. The 2024 Rockwell Automation State of Smart Manufacturing, CPG Edition, cited workforce retention, onboarding new employees, and attracting employees with desired skill sets as the top impediments to growth and productivity.

“Workers are inherently more attracted to environments they consider to be safe and resonate more — and stay longer — with potential employers that have adopted a stronger safety culture,” said Todd Gilliam, industry leader, hybrid industries, Rockwell Automation, in a recent FOOD ENGINEERING article.

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