Wearable technology, once a novelty in health and fitness sectors, is now revolutionising workplace safety. These devices, ranging from medical event triggers to health trackers to remote worker location identifiers, are now being employed to enhance safety measures and reduce serious incidents in various work environments.
Wearable safety devices encompass a broad spectrum of products that leverage technology to collect data, provide hazard alerts, and even enhance health and safety training. These devices are not just confined to traditional workplaces; they are now making strides in improving health and safety for high risk and remote workers in construction, healthcare, and industrial environments.
One of the significant advancements in wearable safety technology is the integration of sensors in hard helmets. Traditionally, hard hats have been a staple in many work environments, such as construction sites, offering protection from falling debris and low ceilings. However, modern iterations of these helmets are equipped with sensors that collect data on the proximity of an employee to a potential hazard or the likelihood of being struck. In the unfortunate event of a head injury, these helmets can measure the impact, providing crucial data for medical professionals and workplace records.
Another critical aspect of wearable safety technology is the collection of biometric data. Many individuals already use wearable tech, such as fitness trackers or smartwatches, that collect this data. In a workplace setting, these devices can alert to potential dangers such as elevated heart rates or high temperatures. By monitoring the health of employees in real-time, better safety decisions can be made.
Wearable safety tech also employs sensors to detect hazards and provide warnings to employees. This technology can help employees be more aware of their surroundings and receive warnings of potential hazards before they escalate into real problems. This could significantly contribute to preventing workplace injuries and reducing workplace sickness.
Furthermore, wearable devices are being used to provide augmented reality training sessions. This allows staff to undergo realistic training sessions without having to perform potentially dangerous actions in real life. It can also save time, money, and space by allowing employees to train within a smaller training location instead of having to set up specific scenarios or train in the field.
Before you introduce wearables, consider how they will connect to a network to trigger an alert. Does it use Bluetooth or WiFi or a cellular signal? Does it connect to an app that automatically alerts the rest of the team? Will it work in remote locations or just in the local area? How do you need it to perform on your site?
The introduction of wearable safety technology is making workplaces safer. More employers are recognizing its potential and are starting to use it to improve health and safety. If you're seeking wearables for your workplace, consider a Vanguard Wireless system + wearables.