Smart PPE & Mesh Communication Networks
Health & Safety Technology

The Role of Technology in a Post-Pandemic World
A look back at how technology has helped worker health and safety during COVID-19 and imagining its role in the future.

Health and safety professionals have had to adapt almost overnight, with the federal and local government creating COVID-19 workplace safety guidelines in a matter of weeks, many of which that have continued to evolve and are still in place today.

Some of these changes are temporary, such as the need for social distancing. Others may be more fundamental and long term, such as the need for better air filtration systems in office buildings or the use of contactless cards to gain entry. These long-term adaptations will improve worker safety and help us in the event of future pandemics.

One demand that is shared by virtually all workplaces—particularly those on the frontline—is the need for safe communication. Typically, these industries might have relied on push-to-talk radios or intercom systems to relay critical information, but in a post-COVID-19 world, these technologies come with associated risk.

Smart PPE and Communication

To remedy this communication problem, we’re likely to see smart PPE soar in popularity. Smart PPE simply refers to PPE that’s been outfitted with intelligent technology to increase its function, such as a hands-free, voice-activated communication device built into a helmet or an augmented reality overlay built into a visor or pair of goggles.

Communication devices could be seamlessly integrated into existing PPE equipment such as visors, helmets and overalls. That would give business leaders far more choice when it comes to tackling social distancing and contamination. Such devices could even use mesh communication networks to advance their communication capabilities further.

Wearable Technology - The New Health and Safety Rule book

In addition to the tangible physical measures we’re all used to, we’re likely to see more intangible health and safety measures take the spotlight. Employee health and well-being is also likely to be treated with more scrutiny and care moving forward, with companies enforcing strict policies regarding home working when ill. ehstoday.com