Technological developments since the first industrial revolution has allowed production processes to evolve and efficiency to increase in an unprecedented rate in the recent years. Industry 4.0 technologies have created smart, interconnected and easily managed manufacturing facilities, leading way to a shift in paradigm in regards to production of goods. This fundamental change also has many positive implications for occupational health and safety, which is extremely hard to manage manually in manufacturing plants.
Manufacturing facilities that are complex and full of fast-moving vehicles and equipment and a large workforce are unfortunately very prone to accidents and safety hazards. This not only poses risks for the overall health and safety of the labor force, but also can have significant financial and reputational consequences in the form of medical expenses, lawsuits and production delays. Keeping this in mind, industrialists must take advantage of newer technologies to ensure safety in an efficient way.
While most Industry 4.0 technologies require a complete overhaul of the processes and established infrastructure and a large financial investment, there are also some solutions that can be easily implemented. One such application is location tracking, which can be used to track frontline workers and moving equipment to prevent accidents and take rapid action in case of emergencies. An employee wearing a location tracking device can be warned when heavy mobile equipment such as a forklift is nearby, making sure that they pay close attention to reduce any risk of collision or accidents. In the case of an emergency or accident, employees can be located easily with location tracking devices. Location tracking devices can also be used to grant temporary or permanent access to employees for different areas of the facilities to simplify zone management.
Currently, COVID-19 is the most significant factor that puts employee health at risk, which makes it a priority in terms of occupational health and safety. The rate at which the virus is being spread and the unpredictable consequences of infection makes it an issue that has to be addressed by industrialists. In this context, tracking the location and interactions of employees become even more important to make sure social distance is maintained at all times to prevent possible spread. Safe Steps devices are designed to track risky interactions and warn users in real time, while location tracking can be activated post-pandemic to take advantage of other opportunities to boost safety in the facilities. Other features like the HES code integration and automated filiation graphs boost the effectiveness of the tool and provides comprehensive protection for all employees and visitors.
Occupational safety is a priority for employees and employers alike, especially with the dangers of COVID-19. Location tracking becomes an extremely valuable tool to ensure every individual is safe and protected in their workplace, now and after the pandemic.
Contact us to find out how Safe Steps can help you protect your workforce.
