Handy device to reduce workplace accidents 30 Nov 2017

Despite massive investment in the prevention of accidents in the underground construction industry in the US, injury rates have stayed the same. To help tackle this, two Minnesota-based companies, Corvex and Ergodyne, have partnered to offer a solution.

Potential hazards can be reported in real time

Safety platform developer Corvex has designed a handheld Core Safety Device, which is connected to the internet, shares real time data across the industry and can be carried by all workers so that they can obtain information to ensure greater safety in the workplace and also input potential hazards and safety concerns to head office so that situations can be avoided.

To complement the device, safety gear manufacturer Ergodyne has developed a range of safety workwear to protect and improve productivity. This includes full body protection and high visibility and thermal wear.

“Advancements in sensor technologies and online systems have opened the door to obtaining real-time data at the point of safety –- the worker. Safety happens in real time, and the data we use to prevent injuries should also be the same,” says Ted Smith, CEO of Corvex.

The handheld Core Safety Device can be carried by all workers

“Our goal has always been to encourage a proactive attitude toward safety among workers and safety professionals, which is why we put so much focus on designing gear that not only protects, but performs well, and looks good and feels good too,” said Tom Votel, President and CEO of Ergodyne. “For the past three years, we have been actively exploring opportunities to take our products to the next level: from inert to intelligent and connected. We see it as the next logical step in our mission toward zero workplace injuries.”

Using intelligent safety gear to assist communication between safety professionals and workers means not only preventing injuries, but reducing costs and increasing productivity.