As seen on NBC Nightly News on June 27, SlateSafety’s wearable technology was shown as one method to optimize worker safety in Alabama during a heat wave.
With heat indices in the triple digits, businesses must implement practices to keep workers safe from heat-related illnesses. Workers at Black Warrior Brewing Company in downtown Tuscaloosa were recently profiled wearing SlateSafety’s devices on their arms, giving a view into real-time data for worker safety.
SlateSafety’s BAND V2s are wearable physiological monitoring devices that optimize safety by sending alerts when predetermined threshold values are met or exceeded. The bands monitor heart rate, core body temperature and exertion levels. This type of technology empowers leaders to ensure safety for their workforce, take breaks, and get adequate care when core temperature, heart rate or exertion levels exceed a safe threshold.
In the report, one worker’s core body temperatures exceeded safe limits, which prompted a cool-down break.
Using technology like SlateSafety’s can optimize work/rest cycles during times of extreme heat. This promotes worker safety and OSHA compliance without losing productivity.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 35 workers per year die from heat-related illnesses and 2,700 cases have days away from work.
Currently, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), is offering a free consultation program for small and medium-sized businesses to help ensure worker safety. SlateSafety’s tool can help businesses boost employee engagement in OSHA programs with its direct feedback.
University of Alabama’s Safe State program (UA SafeState) is currently implementing this technology.
UA SafeState Executive Director, Don Elswick, was an earlier adopter of SlateSafety’s technology and has used it during many consultation visits with businesses across the Southeast.
“Education regarding heat safety in the workplace is crucial for businesses. We hope to equip leaders with knowledge and tools like SlateSafety’s to prevent injuries and illnesses and implement strategies to help keep workers safe without sacrificing productivity,” Elswick said.
SlateSafety’s technology has created improvements in safety, quality, productivity and cost-effectiveness in business operations, said Elswick.
SlateSafety’s technology is available nationwide and free trials are available but limited. Click here to find out more or book a free trial.