Technology’s impact on the future of workplace safety

Technology has revolutionised every aspect of life – from communication to entertainment, and now to safety. With this advanced technology becoming more accessible, many companies have begun to use it to streamline processes, reduce inefficiencies and most importantly, to keep workers safe.

Let’s take a look at some of the digital innovations that are shaping the future of workplace safety as we know it.

Apps

It really is true. There’s an app for everything nowadays, including workplace safety. Many companies are using apps to:

• Track safety hazards
• Report accidents
• Provide first-aid instructions

The list of workplace safety apps available to organisations is so extensive that companies can handpick ones that correspond with the unique conditions and hazards associated with their industries. Some popular safety apps include lone worker apps which are designed to help reduce the risks of employees who work alone. Features that make these apps popular include panic buttons and location information.

Wearables

Gone are the days when safety wearables referred only to helmets and gloves. Today these digital devices not only offer protection from the environment but can also detect hazards such as:

• Toxic substances and harmful chemicals
• Proximity to dangerous machinery
• Wearer body conditions such as heart rate and blood pressure

What’s more is that wearables are being increasingly used to determine if cumulative health conditions (such as hearing loss, respiratory disease etc.) are work-related.

Virtual reality

Virtual reality, often referred to simply as VR, creates a virtual environment which users can interact with. Because of its ability to do this, VR is often used to:

• Simulate on-site working conditions for training

This technology is particularly valuable for workplace training as it completely immerses workers in a hazardous environment or situation, enabling them to gain important skills without any risks. What’s more, skills learned during VR training are often retained better than those acquired in a more traditional classroom setting.

Drones

The proliferation of drones is making a significant impact on workplace safety. This technology is commonly used to:

• Gather site information for planning
• Access hard-to-reach, dangerous areas
• Access high-up areas
• Transport materials

Drones offer a multitude of different uses for companies. This technology is specifically handy for assessing risks and helping safety managers make informed decisions regarding safety conditions.

Over and above detecting and protecting workers from workplace hazards, these emerging technologies are proving useful for data collection. Data obtained can be used to give employers a better understanding of what causes workplace accidents and help them make predictions about future incidents. Equipped with these insights, employers can put additional preventative measures in place to mitigate the risk of accidents.  

It’s evident that these digital innovations can make a world of difference when it comes to workplace safety. However, technology is fallible and workplace accidents are still a reality that employers must be prepared to address. That’s where Accisure comes in. With AcciWork companies can guarantee quality care for their workers should an accident occur.

Get in touch with us to find out more: phone 0861 222 47873, email info@accisure.co.za or visit the website: https://accisure.co.za/