Safety Tech for Workers: What’s New in 2023 That You Should Look Out For

Safety is an integral factor when it comes to industrial automation, as workers need to be aware of potential hazards to stay safe and productive. Over the years, employers have put a greater emphasis on the safety of employees in the industrial automation sector by introducing a variety of safety technologies. From cloud-based software applications and AI-integrated systems to advanced monitoring technology, there’s just as much innovation in workforce safety techniques as there is in productivity enhancement. This article will explore what progressive safety technologies for workers in industrial automation are on the horizon for 2023 and beyond.

In recent years, several safety technologies have been developed for use in the automation industry. These range from automatic shutdown systems to emergency stop buttons, as well as laser scanners and photoelectric barriers that are designed to detect any potential safety hazards before they occur. Despite the multitude of current safety technologies available in the industrial automation sector, there is still scope for improvement. In the future, new technologies are being developed to further enhance safety standards within the industry. As we move into 2023, you can expect to see some exciting advancements that bring automation even closer to our workplace safety standards.

Wearable Safety Technology

One of the most noteworthy new safety technologies is wearable sensors. These devices are branded as personal protective equipment (PPE) that are worn by workers to monitor and improve their safety. These devices can detect and alert workers to potential hazards. Wearable sensors can detect changes in air and noise levels, temperature, and the chemical composition of the atmosphere. They can also be used to detect the physiological status of the wearer via heart rate, oxygen levels, and body temperature. Such devices can be used to alert workers to potential hazards and notify supervisors if a worker is in distress. Here are some examples of wearable safety devices available for industrial workers:

• Smart hard hats: Smart hard hats are a type of wearable safety technology designed to protect industrial workers from head injuries and other potential hazards. These helmets are equipped with sensors that can detect and alert workers to impacts, falls, and other hazardous conditions in the workplace. They may also be equipped with communication systems that allow workers to stay in contact with supervisors and colleagues.
• Safety glasses: Safety glasses are another type of wearable safety technology designed to protect workers’ eyesight. These glasses can be equipped with cameras, sensors, and displays to provide workers with real-time information and alerts about potential safety hazards. These devices can spot dangers in the environment and can generate alerts.
• Smartwatches: Smartwatches are a type of wearable technology designed to monitor workers’ health and safety. These watches can track workers’ vital signs such as heart rate and body temperature, as well as activity levels to detect signs of fatigue and stress. This data can then be used to ensure that workers are operating safely and taking regular breaks to avoid injury or illness.
• Smart vests: Smart vests are another type of wearable safety technology that can help protect workers in industrial settings. These vests can be equipped with sensors that monitor workers’ posture and movements to detect potential safety hazards. The sensors can detect when workers are bending or lifting improperly, as well as when they are in danger of being struck by a falling object.
• Wearable air monitors: Wearable air monitors are devices designed to monitor the air quality in the workplace and alert workers to potential health hazards such as exposure to toxic gases or chemicals. These devices can measure the levels of various gases and particles in the air and alert workers when the concentrations reach dangerous levels.
• Wearable noise monitors: Finally, wearable noise monitors are devices designed to measure the noise levels in the workplace and alert workers when they are exposed to dangerous levels of noise. These devices can be worn on the body or placed around the workplace to detect excessive noise levels and alert workers when sound levels exceed safe limits.

Artificial Intelligence-Driven Safety Technology

One of the new safety technologies expected is artificial intelligence (AI) based systems that enable machines to learn and identify risks in the workplace. AI can help improve workplace safety by detecting potential hazards, as well as monitoring and controlling environmental conditions. The data gathered from various sensors can be processed to detect any anomalies and automated safety protocols can be initiated. AI technology can also be used to diagnose machine issues, identify any structural issues and detect safety gaps in production lines. Furthermore, AI can provide better strategies for process control and preventive maintenance. Overall, AI provides improved worker safety by identifying trends and patterns via real-time monitoring, and data analysis. Examples of these technologies include:

• Computer vision systems: Computer vision systems typically use cameras that are strategically mounted in or around a facility to constantly monitor the environment. This way, AI algorithms can detect potentially hazardous conditions before they occur, such as workers who have forgotten to put on their personal protective equipment or who are lurking about in unsafe areas of the factory. Supervisors can be prompted to take action when such instances arise.
• Predictive analytics: Predictive analytics is used to analyze large amounts of data collected from sensors and machines, to make predictions about future events. This can be extremely useful in predictive maintenance, allowing factories to detect any potential issues before they have time to affect production. Moreover, predictive analytics can also be used to predict the likelihood of human error, and thus identify possible risks and areas where safety practices need to be improved.
• Augmented reality (AR): This technology uses computer vision to overlay digital information onto the physical world. AR systems often use cameras and sensors to detect motions and objects in the real world, allowing them to generate 3D graphics and visuals that interact with their environment. AR can be used to provide workers with instructions and safety warnings as they work, allowing them to make decisions more quickly and accurately.
• Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT): It is a system of interconnected physical devices, sensors, and software applications that use the Internet to enable machines to collect data, share information, and operate automatically. This technology is used to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and increase safety in industrial settings. IIoT helps in worker safety by providing real-time monitoring of working conditions and machinery performance.
• Virtual assistants: Virtual assistants are very useful in providing real-time assistance and guidance to help workers stay informed. For instance, if a worker is unsure of how to safely handle certain chemical compounds or machinery, they can ask the virtual assistant for detailed protocols and safety requirements.

Safety Improvements in Automation Systems

Autonomous robotic systems are systems that are capable of independent decision-making and action based on previously programmed algorithms. This type of system requires minimal human input and ensures that the required job is completed with accuracy and precision. The use of autonomous robotic systems in industrial automation is a highly beneficial move, as it allows for improved productivity while simultaneously ensuring worker safety. There are some new additions to autonomous robotic systems and relevant safety technologies in industrial automation. Some examples of these systems are:

• Robotic Safety Cells: Robotic safety cells are expected to become more prevalent in 2023. A robotic safety cell is a physical barrier that is placed between a robot and its workspace to provide physical protection from possible collisions between the robot and workers. The safety cell can detect potential hazards, such as objects entering or leaving the workspace, and disable the robot’s motion to prevent it from harming any individuals in the area.
• Collaborative robots (cobots): These robots are designed to work alongside humans, rather than replacing them, and are equipped with built-in safety features to prevent accidents. Some of the safety features of cobots include force-sensing, which allows the robot to detect unexpected resistance or pressure and react accordingly. Cobots also operate at a slow speed, which gives workers enough time to react if necessary. Additionally, cobots have stop-on-contact capabilities that enable them to detect and respond to contact with humans, helping to prevent accidents.
• Autonomous Mobile Robots: Autonomous mobile robots are robots that can operate autonomously in warehouses and other industrial settings, navigating their surroundings and moving materials without human intervention. These mobile devices are equipped with advanced sensors, and cameras that assist in safe navigation, and collision avoidance in a surrounding where other moving objects and humans are present. This technology is becoming increasingly popular in the industrial automation space, as it can help reduce costs, increase efficiency, and improve safety.
• Safety laser scanners: These devices emit a laser beam that scans the surrounding area to detect the presence of people or objects. If the scanner detects an obstacle in its path, it can trigger a safety stop to prevent collisions. Safety laser scanners provide a high level of detection accuracy, which helps workers avoid potential hazards.
• Safety mats: Safety mats are pressure-sensitive mats that can be placed on the floor in areas where people are working with machines. If someone steps on the mat, it can trigger a safety stop to prevent accidents. Safety mats provide an effective way to ensure that machinery stops when someone enters a hazardous area.
• Safety curtains: Safety curtains are infrared or light curtains that can be used to create a barrier between workers and machinery. If someone enters the protected area, the curtains can trigger a safety stop to prevent injuries and protect workers from hazardous areas.

Some of these safety technologies can be used in combination to create safety zones around machinery or equipment to prevent workers from entering hazardous areas.

Cloud-Based Safety Technology

Modern cloud-based safety technologies have become increasingly important in providing remote monitoring of industrial processes and informing the workers on machine performance and environmental risks in advance. These technologies can help detect and prevent malicious activity, reduce data transfer times, and enable predictive maintenance to ensure machines are running smoothly. In combination, these technologies provide a comprehensive safety solution that can be used to keep workers safe in industrial automation. Here are some of the latest trends in these technologies:

• Cybersecurity Solutions: As industrial automation systems become increasingly connected, they face the risk of cyber-attacks. Cybersecurity solutions are essential to protect against such threats and ensure workers remain safe in their environment. The latest trends in cybersecurity for industrial automation include the use of artificial intelligence and machine learning to detect and prevent malicious activity in real-time. These AI-based systems can identify anomalies and suspicious behavior, alerting security personnel as soon as possible.
• Edge Computing: Unlike cloud-based or centralized systems this technology allows data storage, and computing close to the source of the data via a distributed computing model. It reduces the amount of data being transferred over networks, allowing for faster analysis and response times. In industrial automation, edge computing can be used to improve worker safety by allowing for real-time analysis of data from sensors and other devices. This can help detect equipment failure or unsafe conditions quickly and take appropriate action.
• Cloud-Based Automation Solutions: Cloud-based automation solutions allow for remote access to industrial automation systems, making it easier to manage and monitor equipment from anywhere. This technology can improve worker safety by allowing for remote troubleshooting and maintenance, reducing the need for workers to physically interact with dangerous machines. By streamlining operations, cloud-based automation solutions can reduce the number of manual errors, eliminate redundant tasks, and provide insights into process efficiency.

Safety Management Software

Another type of new safety technology expected in 2023 is the use of safety apps. These mobile applications are designed to monitor safety conditions, detect potential hazards, and alert operators to take corrective action. Through safety apps, workers can be informed of safety protocols as well as receive checklists and notifications to ensure they are aware of any potential risks. Additionally, supervisors can use the apps to track employee locations and access safety records and data. As a result, safety apps are an effective tool for promoting a safe and secure work environment. Some of the safety app examples are:

• Incident management software: Incident management software is designed to help companies manage safety incidents and near-misses. This software enables companies to track investigation progress and analyze trends to prevent future incidents. By using incident management software, companies can identify and address safety concerns quickly, minimizing the risk of accidents and injuries.
• Risk management software: This software can be standard or customized according to company demands. It helps companies assess and manage safety risks. By using this software, companies can identify potential safety hazards and take steps to mitigate them. These practices also ensure that safety audits are conducted regularly and consistently, allowing companies to stay on top of safety issues and prevent accidents.
• Safety training software: Safety training software provides employees with interactive training modules to help them understand safety protocols and best practices. This software can be used to train new employees or to provide ongoing training to existing employees. By using safety training software, companies can ensure that employees are knowledgeable about safety protocols and procedures, minimizing the risk of accidents and injuries.

Conclusion

In recent years, technology has progressed to the point where employers can utilize novel safety technologies to drastically reduce the number of accidents occurring in the industrial automation industry. These inventions can have a significant impact on eliminating hazards and ensuring a safe working environment. From Wearable Sensors to AI-driven factory systems and predictive analytics, workers should be aware of these new developments to ensure optimal safety and production efficiency in the years to come. The realization of these technologies can effectively reduce the risk of workplace accidents and create a safer environment for workers. Employers need to invest in such technologies, and for workers to be familiar with them and understand their use.

This entry was posted on April 17th, 2023 and is filed under Uncategorized. Both comments and pings are currently closed.