Whether you want it or not, there’s no denying that the construction industry is on its way to the digital edge. For instance, more and more construction equipment is now being networked, which means they are now capable of sharing information with computers– thanks to the Internet of Things.
On a smaller scale, since you can now add sensors and wireless connectivity to PPE, such as a safety vest and hard hats, it has become easier for workers to get alerts, and communicate with each other. Not only does this improve overall efficiency, but it also ensures that everyone stays safe while on the job.
Adding intelligence to personal protective equipment is one of the best ways to improve safety as it makes it easier for asset owners to check the status of the material, and it also improves quality control at the same time. Furthermore, smart PPE can also be integrated with manufacturer inventory databases, allowing the transfer of data quickly.
This advancement allows project managers and equipment owners to be able to create and even maintain a digital certificate of ownership. This records every each important point in the lifespan of an item– from purchase through to disposal. Something like this is significant, especially in quality control. For example, it ensures that the equipment being used on the construction site works the way it should be.
The Use of IoT in PPE
Smart systems represent a step towards a bright future where PPE item can easily be monitored, evaluated, and queried real time as it becomes an integral part of IoT.
Benefits are likely to be enjoyed even more, especially with the integration of IoT technology in PPE, and this includes location tracking, real-time monitoring, situational awareness, and many more. Experts believe that the millennials would be the first ones to adopt IoT enabled PPE as these people are more safety conscious that the earlier generations.
It’s expected that this would lead to a brighter future and a safer environment. Those who have to work in high-risk zones don’t have to worry much about their safety anymore, because of the benefits and features smart PPE has.
It’s also worth noting that IoT enabled PPE has the tendency of gaining traction these coming years– all thanks to the more significant shift towards a brighter future. Those who are part of it are likely to engage in collaborative partnerships to come up with better solutions.
Other functions include the following:
- Real-time detection and monitoring of the dangerous environment, exposure to toxins, noise, and changes in temperature.
- Constant tracking of worker’s health state, as well as stress levels through measuring critical physiological parameters.
- Monitoring the comfort of the workers.
- Activation of risk controls
- Monitoring of the current protection level offered by smart PPE.
- GPS systems to record the progress of truck drivers, especially when they’re traveling to dangerous locations.
There’s a reason construction PPE and the Internet of Things are encouraging a brighter future, and what we have discussed earlier can give you an idea of what to expect every time these two innovations merge.
Chris works with small business owners across the nation with professional PPC management services, SEO marketing, and social media marketing.