Cognitive load and emotional dynamics as safety factors in human–robot collaboration: a review

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

10-1-2026

Abstract

As robotics integrates into high-risk construction environments, cognitive load and emotional dynamics emerge as critical safety factors influencing Human–Robot Collaboration (HRC). While technical coordination is well-studied, comprehensive reviews of these psychological safety factors remain limited. This study addresses this gap through a mixed-method systematic review that combines scientometric mapping with an in-depth qualitative synthesis of 55 peer-reviewed journal articles. Five dominant research themes were identified: cognitive load and human factors, intelligent systems and cognitive architectures, social-emotional interaction, AI-driven decision-making, and emerging enabling technologies. More importantly, the findings demonstrate that cognitive and emotional processes are not independent but interact dynamically to shape safety outcomes. Building on these insights, the study develops an integrated cognitive–emotional safety framework that models how contextual factors, cognitive responses, and emotional states jointly influence worker safety during collaboration. The review further reveals a geographically concentrated evidence base, highlighting the need for broader, more inclusive research to support globally applicable safety strategies. The study advances safety science by repositioning cognitive and emotional dynamics as central, manageable risk factors in HRC. It calls for future research to develop task-specific cognitive load models, incorporate emotional safety into system design, and implement adaptive, human-aware robotic systems capable of proactively mitigating safety risks. This work provides a foundational framework for advancing safety science in technology-enhanced work environments.

Publication Source (Journal or Book title)

Safety Science

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