The Impact of Technology for Safety in the Workplace: Trends and Innovations
Workplace safety has come a long way since the industrial revolution. New technology for safety, regulations, and innovations have improved workplace and home safety. Singer Safety Company has been a leader in industrial safety equipment for over 70 years, and we’ve seen firsthand how technology and safety go hand in hand.
History of Health and Safety Technology
One of the most common pieces of technology for safety, the smoke alarm or the fire detector, has been around in some form since the 1890s. However, the modern battery-powered smoke alarm was not introduced until 1969 and not widely used until the mid-1970s when federal codes required them in all homes in the United States. At that time, we didn’t imagine drones, artificial intelligence, and virtual reality would become part of the marriage of safety and technology in the workplace.
Innovations in Health and Safety Technology
Workplace safety is constantly improving. New innovations, procedures, and technology for safety continue to lower the risks of accidents or injuries and create an even safer work environment. Using sensors, drones, robotics, AI, and mobile apps has improved workplace safety.
Sensors
A long way from the standard smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors, sensors now include wearable devices and connections to computers and applications for real-time data. Wearable technology for safety can include badges, vests, or armbands that can monitor workers’ vital signs, environmental conditions, and even location, alerting them and supervisors of potential hazards. Wearable devices can also detect sudden movements or changes in posture, triggering alerts in case of a fall. This is especially useful in high-risk environments such as construction and mining. Sensors may be able to detect emergency health issues before any symptoms appear.
Equipment and environmental sensors and devices can be deployed to monitor various aspects of workplace safety, including equipment status, environmental conditions, and employee movements, providing real-time data for better decision-making. Connecting various sensors to mobile devices provides real-time information on employees and equipment, potentially allowing employers to solve a safety problem before there is one.
Gas and Fire Detectors
Smoke detectors and carbon monoxide (CO) sensors are standard and required in homes and facilities. Industrial fire and gas detection systems can include lights, audible alarms, and announcement systems. New innovations in safety and technology include smart smoke detectors and alarms that can pair with cell phones to alert when no one is on-site, provide warning for small amounts of smoke – such as burnt toast in the kitchen – and allow individuals to silence the alarm easily if everything is under control.
Industrial fire detection systems can provide automatic contact with emergency services and deploy sprinklers and other fire suppression systems. Fire detection systems paired with fire safety equipment are the best way to limit the risk and damage from a fire.
Drones and Robotics
Drones and robotics are becoming more widely used in every industry for a variety of tasks, but also as technology for safety. Drones equipped with cameras and sensors can provide visuals of potentially hazardous areas prior to employee entry, and to ensure an area is safe after an incident. Drones can help identify safety risks and provide valuable information without risking human lives.
Robotics have become a key piece of technology for safety. Robots can lower the risk of human injury or accident by performing dangerous tasks. Robots can be programmed to handle hazardous materials or navigate confined spaces. We’ve seen robots in action movies and procedural crime shows removing and handling explosives, and that same methodology is being used in other industries. Allowing robots to handle hazardous materials reduces the need for human intervention in high-risk environments.
Artificial Intelligence and Virtual Reality
Artificial intelligence, virtual reality, and augmented reality have quickly become key components in a variety of fields, including technology for safety. VR and AR technology are used for employee training. Employees can practice interacting with potentially harmful machinery and equipment without anyone being at risk. The simulations allow employees to actually visualize and experience a practice emergency response, such as a fire drill or hazardous situation, without risk to their own safety or the environment. This can improve employees’ awareness and understanding of safety procedures, preparedness in case of an incident, and familiarity with equipment.
Artificial intelligence algorithms can analyze datasets to identify patterns and predict potential safety issues. Predictive analytics can help organizations proactively address safety concerns before they escalate.
Workplace Security
The days of physical keys to facilities have mostly faded out, and even the days of swiping an ID badge for access are limited. Biometric security systems, including fingerprint scans, are becoming more popular, especially in high-risk environments. New security innovations enhance access control and ensure that only authorized personnel enter restricted areas, minimizing the risk of unauthorized access and potential accidents.
Mobile Apps
Many of these safety technologies can be paired with mobile applications for on-the-go and real-time reporting and information. Data from sensors and detectors can be shared in real-time, allowing for a more coordinated response. Employees and employers can use safety applications to report near misses and incidents and review risk assessments and emergency procedures.
Singer Safety Company
Singer Safety Company has been manufacturing industrial safety equipment since 1950. We have kept up with changes in technology for safety, regulations, and requirements for workplace safety across various industries. We even keep up with new industries that did not exist decades ago, such as cannabis manufacturing. Singer Safety Company is an expert in workplace safety equipment. Our products are designed to protect your organization’s employees and assets from a wide range of hazards, including excessive heat, dust and other air pollutants, noise, sparks, fire, and molten metal. Contact us today to discuss your safety needs!