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February/March 2017  Volume 15, Number 1        
 

evidence-based treatment

Beyond Fitbits: How Wearable Tech Can Increase Safety

Dictionary.com defines wearable computers as “miniature electronic devices that are worn by the bearer under, with or on top of clothing.” You might be thinking of futuristic devices such as Google Glass, but many safety “wearables” are much simpler and more common. Here’s a peek at a few technologies that are improving safety.

Sensors

For years, x-ray technicians and other professionals who work with x-rays and other harmful radiation have worn radiation meters, or dosimeters, which detect the levels of radiation they are exposed to. Sensor devices can detect other harmful exposures as well, and most will warn the wearer if exposure levels approach a danger point. Sensor devices with occupational safety uses include:

  • Sound level meters. Useful for workers in the entertainment industry, construction, manufacturing and more. Detects sound levels that could damage human hearing.
  • Pressure sensors. Pressure sensors can detect when a load will exceed a shelf’s capacity and warn a forklift operator before collapse occurs.
  • Temperature monitors. As you’d guess, a temperature monitor detects ambient temperature and warns a worker (such as someone working in a refrigerated warehouse or cold room) when exposure to cold reaches a certain predetermined level.
  • Fitbits. Yes, the ubiquitous Fitbit that people wear to track their steps also has health and safety applications. Certain models of Fitbits and other fitness trackers will prompt the wearer when it’s time to move, in addition to tracking movements. Remaining sedentary for too long can affect attention, as well as health.
  • Sleep detectors. Various devices can sense when a wearer is becoming sleepy or falling asleep and sound a warning. Some devices fit over the ear or attach to a hat and detect when a driver’s head is drooping, likely indicating he or she is nodding off. However, by the time that happens, the car might already be veering into another lane.

Newer technologies focus on a driver’s eyes and will sound an alarm when they close; however, wearing glasses, sunglasses and glare can interfere with the sensors. Other anti-sleep technologies use sensors to measure electrodermal activity (electrical impulses through the skin) and alarm when activity indicates a drop in alertness.

One of the simplest and cheapest—though not necessarily most effective—devices is to use a “blue light” smartphone app. When a user keeps the phone in view, the blue light on the screen acts as a stimulant and, theoretically at least, prevents the driver from falling asleep.

Respirators: Respirators protect workers against insufficient oxygen environments, harmful dusts, fogs, smokes, mists, gases, vapors, and sprays. These hazards may cause cancer, lung impairment, diseases, or death. Two types of respirators exist: ones that provide clean, breathable air for low-oxygen or extremely hazardous atmospheres, and ones that filter ambient air for particles, vapors and other harmful substances. You must choose the right type of respirator for the situation, and it must also fit the wearer properly. For tips on respirator fit, please contact us.

GPS Tracking Devices: GPS devices have many occupational uses. In addition to helping drivers find their way, they can protect workers from hazards. Employers whose employees have hazardous material exposures can link GPS devices to databases of known hazard locations; devices can warn employees when they get too close.

Clothing/Environmental Control: Clothing has gone high-tech too. From battery-operated socks to shirts and hats with cooling devices, wearable devices can protect workers from excessive heat or cold.

Fall Detectors: You’ve heard the ads: “I’ve fallen and I can’t get up!” Fall detectors have been marketed to seniors for years, but they also have workplace applications. Falls occur more frequently in older adults when their health and fitness levels decline. Devices that screen for gait and mobility impairment can produce a falls risk score and identify those at risk.

Google Glass: Finally, Google Glass…Google Glass and similar technologies use an embedded computer to project images on eyeglass lenses. Although Google Glass is not yet available to the general public, it has the potential to provide hands-free access to information that people such as first responders need in the field.

When it comes to safety, though, sometimes the simplest solutions make the most difference…see the next bullet point!

Lights: Having inadequate lighting contributes to many accidents. Whether a worker needs more light to see to safely complete a task or whether others need more light to see a worker who’s on the road, there’s a wearable that will help. Headlamps and clip-on lights for helmets can help on both counts; reflective vests and other gear help increase visibility.

If your workplace has safety challenges, please contact us for a review and solutions.

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In this issue:

This Just In...

OSHA Update

15-Point Checklist for Your Account Service Instructions

Beyond Fitbits: How Wearable Tech Can Increase Safety

Daylight Savings Safety

 

 


The information presented and conclusions within are based upon our best judgment and analysis. It is not guaranteed information and does not necessarily reflect all available data. Web addresses are current at time of publication but subject to change. SmartsPro Marketing and The Insurance 411 do not engage in the solicitation, sale or management of securities or investments, nor does it make any recommendations on securities or investments. This material may not be quoted or reproduced in any form without publisher’s permission. All rights reserved. ©2015 The Insurance 411. Tel. 877-762-7877. www.theinsurance411.com