Using IoT to improve worker safety

Thanks to cheaper methods of manufacturing hardware and the rise of wireless networks, it's now possible to turn anything—from small units to giant aeroplanes—into a part of the Internet of Things (IoT). The IoT, in the most basic sense, refers to the billions of electronic devices that are connected to a large network. And they can function with minimal human intervention.

Though IoT has many uses, one of its bigger roles is creating safer workplaces. With so many workplace hazards to think about, be it electronic malfunctions, human error, or biochemical reactions, such solutions have become extremely useful.

Here are some ways that the IoT is helping to create safer workplaces around the world.

Smart Alarms

The IoT takes normal electronics and appliances like refrigerators or lights, and connects them to other devices. Today, these IoT-connected devices are simply called “smart” technology; and one of its earliest applications is the smart alarm. For instance, smart smoke detectors can sense anomalies in the carbon monoxide levels in the air, potentially detecting fires before they even start. Some smart alarms like Vivint can even alert the authorities automatically to assist with the problem, whether it is the fire department or the local hospital, should the worst happen.

Predictive Maintenance

Most machines break down not because they are old, but because they aren’t very well maintained. And of course, a faulty machine can lead to a variety of hazards. In fact, some of the biggest workplace accidents in the country are caused by machine malfunctions. IoT-connected devices can process their hardware’s condition in real-time, and alert companies whenever they are due for maintenance. Companies such as Oracle, SAS, and IBM can provide your business with these types of solutions.

Efficient Machine Production

On another note, workplace hazards don’t just happen because they aren’t being maintained properly; some defects are straight out of the factory. For this reason, it's crucial to choose the best PCB design software with a unified design interface to allow workers to safely assemble and edit new parts. However, it doesn't change the fact that PCB manufacturing needs intensive and intricate attention, especially when creating PCBs for IoT devices. Perhaps one of the best contributions of the IoT to PCB manufacturing is how it can improve the relationship between PCB designers and engineers. Like PCBs, working with the IoT is no joke, so both parties have to be fully engaged in the process. According to Tech Moran, this could eliminate the need for assembly lines entirely. And even changes in the manufacturing can be done more quickly and with less room for error, as both PCB designers and engineers will work more closely together.

Wearable tech

Wearables are inarguably one of the greatest products of the IoT, with uses stemming from monitoring vitals to locating a user’s whereabouts. This technology is especially prevalent in industrial manufacturing companies and other physically demanding sectors. True enough, studies show that the global industrial wearable revenue is expected to grow to $2.78 billion (₹205 billion) by 2024. With it, industrial employers can recognize the signs of overexertion, injuries, and even abnormal substances in their systems. This informs them if their workers need a break, for instance, or even clinical assistance.

There are hazards everywhere, no matter what kind of workplace you're in. Offices are always at risk of electrical fires, for example, and factories have more harmful substances permeating the air than your average working environment. So let the IoT help you find the right safety solutions. Nothing is more important than the health and safety of your employees.