Robotic Inspection System Wins Award for Eliminating Tank Entry Hazards -- Occupational Health & Safety

A worker wearing full protective suit, helmet, respirator, and safety harness inspects the interior of a large, cylindrical metal tank.

Robotic Inspection System Wins Award for Eliminating Tank Entry Hazards

The submersible technology reduced confined-space entries to zero across 385 tank inspections.

By Danielle Naidu
Sep 16, 2026

Square Robot Inc. received the sixth annual Prevention through Design Award on Sept. 15 during the 2026 NSC Safety Congress & Expo in Indianapolis. The company was recognized for developing a submersible robotic system that allows tank inspections without worker entry.

The system operates while tanks remain sealed, removing the need for ventilation and atmospheric monitoring. Across 385 tanks, it reduced confined-space entries to zero and helped contain more than 695 tons of volatile organic compound emissions.

Led by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), Prevention through Design seeks to eliminate or reduce occupational hazards through design and redesign.

About the Author

Danielle Naidu is assistant editor for Security Today, Campus Security Today, Occupational Health & Safety and Environmental Protection Online.

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