(WO) — Square Robot has received the 2026 NIOSH Prevention through Design Award for its SR-3 submersible inspection robot and Side Launcher deployment system, technology designed to eliminate confined-space entry during above-ground storage tank inspections.
The SR-3 enables operators to inspect tanks while they remain onstream, without requiring shutdown, product removal or tank cleaning. The Side Launcher deploys and retrieves the robot through the shell manway of a floating-roof tank, keeping personnel outside the confined space.
“When we designed SR-3, the goal was not to make confined space entry safer. The goal was to eliminate the need for it,” said Amy Underwood, vice president of hardware engineering at Square Robot. “If a robot can perform the inspection, we can remove people from those hazards altogether.”
The SR-3 has been independently certified by FM Approvals for operation in Class I, Division 2 hazardous locations, while the Side Launcher is certified for Class I, Division 1 environments.
The NIOSH Prevention through Design program recognizes technologies and processes designed to eliminate or reduce workplace hazards rather than relying primarily on procedures or protective equipment to control them.
Square Robot received the award Sept. 15 during the National Safety Council Safety Congress & Expo in Indianapolis.
About The Author
