Three tech innovations shaping workplace safety

• Smart sensors: This includes sensors that track individuals, vehicles or heavy-duty equipment and alert safety leaders to possible safety risks such as collisions or maintenance-related faults. These sensors can also monitor environmental factors such as lightning, high heat or even dust levels.
• Wearable tech: This includes wearable sensors that detect movement, stress or other potential risk factors, and collect data for analysis and reporting. “Exoskeletons that protect workers from physical risks and prevent movement-related injuries are also being developed for industries like mining,” adds Blackie.
• Artificial Intelligence (AI) and IoT: AI and IoT-enabled solutions can automate the monitoring, reporting and predictive analysis of safety risks, and also the response to potential hazards. “These innovations are helping organisations to achieve improved safety outcomes, by seamlessly connecting safety monitoring systems, reporting platforms, emergency response teams and workplace leaders,” notes Blackie.

Trending in workplace safety

Some of these innovations and tools will enable workplaces to adopt a more holistic approach to safety, by addressing the mental wellbeing of workers. “Noting that the rate of mental illness-related workers’ compensation claims is rising fast, we anticipate that psychosocial safety is going to be a hot topic for Australian workplace leaders in the coming months,” says Blackie.

Another trend in safety is personalisation – tailoring safety training and wellbeing programs to individual employees, for the best outcomes. “Cloud-based programs, virtual reality programs, mobile apps and customised systems facilitate this personalised approach. It goes without saying that cyber security and data security will be top of mind for any organisation that’s investing in these platforms,” he adds.

Remote, round-the-clock safety monitoring is another positive side effect of the advances in technology. “Virtual inspections and safety protocols can be carried out regularly and consistently, raising safety standards,” comments Blackie.

Getting across the latest in workplace safety

Staying up to date with the tech innovations, latest trends and new safety legislation is a challenge for safety professionals. “This is why we’re so pleased to present this year’s Workplace Health & Safety Show in Melbourne, with the aim of empowering visitors with the latest OHS resources, knowledge and tools,” says Blackie. “Visitors can register for a free ticket to the show at whsshow.com.au/register-melbourne”.

The Show will be taking place at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre from 22 to 23 May, and will feature three theatre stages, covering everything from the latest in safety technology and resources, to mental wellbeing and psychosocial legislation, as well as dedicated sessions on safety in construction.

Complementing the seminars, workshops and conferences is an exhibition featuring an extensive range of health and safety brands, showcasing their solutions.

The Workplace Health & Safety Melbourne Show runs alongside the AIHS National Health and Safety Conference 2024. Show partners and sponsors include the Victoria Chamber of Commerce and Industry, WorkSafe Victoria, the Black Dog Institute, SkyTrust and the Working at Height Association – to name a few.

“Register today and be part of the number one event for champions of safety at work,” concludes Blackie.

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