Now that much of the world has begun to ease long-term pandemic lockdowns and many workers have returned to work, it’s good to keep in mind that there are many dangers beyond the virus. Such areas are prone to accidents due to the type of work performed. Fortunately, as we noted in our previous article, technology and innovation are helping create safer workspaces. Wearables under constructionOne of the latest examples of this trend is the technology project Led by the University of Nevada, it utilizes several vibration motors to warn workers of dangerous machinery approaching. A team of researchers tapped into the potential for ‘sensory substitution’, which allows for transduction of stimuli. In this case, the sense of sight of the object is replaced by the sense of touch.
With this belt shape, innovative wearables It can alert you to surrounding machinery with 360-degree accuracy. Ten motors are positioned around the belt to provide different levels of strength depending on the proximity of potential hazards. The two motors also have specific vibration codes that indicate the type of machinery around them. The belt is equipped with a Bluetooth device that performs hazardous machinery detection along with vibration feedback.This covers cranes and oncoming vehicles, among other construction equipment
While still in the prototype stage, researchers at an American university have achieved 95% detection accuracy in laboratory tests with blindfolded volunteers. Until now, alarm systems have focused on acoustic signals, but these often go unnoticed, especially in noisy environments like construction sites. Therefore, the new device can greatly improve the efficiency of alerting. Also, being lightweight and portable, these wearables do not interfere with performing daily tasks.
smart belt Embedded safety communication systemIt’s still too early to talk about retail pricing, but the developer believes it will be in the $50 range.
Other on-site protection technologies
Currently, major research to protect workers in hazardous environments includes the following techniques:
- An exoskeleton that reduces the risk of injury when carrying heavy loads.
- Tracking devices such as smart boots to detect the location of injured workers.
- Virtual and augmented reality headsets for training workers in accident prevention and task management on construction sites.
- In-situ sensors that detect the presence of hazardous substances such as gases and asbestos.
- An inspection drone that eliminates the need for workers to access hazardous areas.
Of course, careful use of all available safety equipment, from old-fashioned helmets to safety harnesses, is still the best strategy for avoiding accidents and injuries.
sauce: construction dive
