When it comes to workplace safety, the current numbers are sobering for employers and employees. The latest data from the 2020 Report on Workplace Fatality and Injury Rates in Canada indicate that the number of workers dying from work-related causes is increasing, up from 1,027 workers in 2018. However, technology in the workplace has the potential to improve safety and reduce injuries and fatalities. In general, most employees are agreeable to wearable tech. In fact, according to a survey by tech company Nymi in Toronto, 77% of workers say that they would wear an employer-issued tech device if it would provide benefits such as safety and improving efficiency. Employers who want to ensure that they maintain a safe work environment can take note of these new technologies.

Vehicle Improvements

Work-related vehicle crashes are one of the primary reasons for lost-time claims and the most common cause of fatalities in the workplace. According to Johnson Garcia Law, when such accidents happen, legal representation is necessary in order to deal with the situation effectively. However, there is some good news; new-in vehicle technologies are helping to manage behaviors, track unsafe actions, and capture information to improve driving though. These technologies include GPS systems, dash cams, auto stop features, and even autonomous vehicles. Although some of these technologies are still being developed, telematics and GPS systems are significant technologies that help to make work-related driving safer and more efficient.

Wearable Technology

Worker safety often focuses on the workers themselves and can be used to prevent injuries as well as collect data to allow for greater safety in the future. The technology can be customized for every work environment and be integrated in a number of ways. These technologies can include cooling vests for employees who may work in a heated environment. It may also include sensors to monitor for unsafe conditions or pollutants in the environment. Even heat stress devices are a great tool employers can use. These technologies can limit exposure to hazards and help remove employees from dangerous environments.

Wearable technology provides benefits for both employers and employees as it collects data regarding worker safety. When an employer is injured on the job, the devices will register if there were any unsafe actions taken. When getting legal advice, this technology plays an important role in obtaining and presenting evidence about who is at fault.

Machine Safety

Machine guarding has the standard pullback system to protect from power press-related injuries. However, the employment of light curtains, lasers, and even pressure sensitive mats significantly advances workers safety. These allow workers to perform tasks easily and with fewer inhibitions. They may require proper installation though so it’s best to ensure a qualified person is responsible for them.

Office Environments

Finally, the office is not typically a place for mortality but can lead to a number of work-related injuries. Adjustable workstations that can be tailored to employee’s needs are a great advancement. Ergonomic office tools such as chairs, mouse, and keyboards also help to reduce typing-related stressors and reduce the risk of carpal tunnel syndrome and other conditions. Investing in these technologies is a smart move.

While it may not be possible to reduce the risk of work-related injuries to nothing, new technologies are an important way to make sure that every environment is safe for employees today. Employers who want to ensure that their staff remain on the job should consider investing in some of these options. Since every workplace has different risk factors, it may be prudent to evaluate each one separately. Install or add new technologies as needed to keep the all workers safe while on the job.