Council Clarifies Robot Use in School Cleaning
Renfrewshire Council has affirmed that its investment in robotic technology to assist with cleaning tasks in schools will not lead to the replacement of human workers.
The council previously invested a substantial amount in collaborative robotics, known as cobotics, acquiring eight scrubber dryers. Following their successful implementation last year, the authority is now introducing vacuum technology aimed at supporting cleaning operations.
A report presented to councillors emphasized that these robots are intended to "support productivity" among staff and provide "extra resilience" during periods of staff absence or recruitment challenges.
This update is part of a report scheduled for discussion at the council's finance, resources and customer services policy board.
Details of the Cobotics Deployment
The report stated:
"Building on the successful introduction of eight cobotics scrubber dryers, the service has continued to invest in innovative cleaning solutions through the deployment of cobotics vacuum technology.
Seven mobile racks, each containing six autonomous vacuum units, have been introduced across secondary schools to support cleaning delivery."
Previous Criticism and Council Response
In June 2024, Councillor Eddie Devine criticized the council's trial of cobotics in school buildings, expressing concern that the machines might be used as justification to reduce jobs.
The Paisley Southeast politician remarked:
"This idea is basically to cut costs and then at some point cut workers.
They just want to replace human workers, it's a cost-cutting exercise. These things are always the same."
In response, the council clarified that the technology is intended to allow employees to focus on other areas rather than replace them.
Current Report Emphasizes Supportive Role of Robots
The latest report explains:
"These cobotics vacuums are designed to assist rather than replace staff by undertaking repetitive, labour-intensive floor cleaning, enabling cleaners to focus on quality-critical tasks such as sanitary areas and high-touch surfaces.
This approach supports productivity, staff wellbeing and consistent service standards, while the mobility of the equipment allows redeployment to feeder schools to provide additional resilience during periods of staff absence or recruitment pressures."
Story by Local Democracy Reporter Jack Thomson.
