Page 85 - OHS, July/August 2020

that the elevated surface is actually protected by guards at all times. To ensure safety and comply with this regulation, a reciprocat- ing barrier is one of the best options, as it allows access to only one side of an elevated work platform. In fact, reciprocating barriers can provide both safety and compliance for racking applications
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Key Takeaways
Safety regulations are constantly evolving as new technology and new applications are developed across the globe. Regardless of in- dustry category, it’s important for facility managers to stay abreast of not only the newest safety standards, but also to be aware of what’s coming down the regulatory pipeline. A number of the reg- ulations are currently phasing in or under review. However, there are many other areas of potential regulatory change that may be further out on the horizon. These include:
■ Drone Delivery. Although Amazon, Google and UPS have already begun using drones, regulation on this “last mile” of the supply chain is still very much in flux, due to safety concerns in- volving drones and manned aircraft. The FAA has limited these deliveries for now, but that is expected to expand in the near future.
■ Smart PPE. Smart personal protective equipment (PPE) devices are now on the market and employers are using them to monitor workers blood oxygen levels, vital signs and blood alcohol, among other things. Legal issues and legislation related to personal data collection and privacy issues are expected.
■ Supply Chain traceability. New, tighter FDA requirements for pharmaceutical supply chains went into effect November 27, 2019. Look for traceability requirements in all industries to con- tinue ramping up.
■ Industrial Internet of Things. While IIoT technology can reduce headaches for facility managers, it can also create a larger opening for cyber criminals to hack systems and steal intellectual property. Cyber-security issues and regulations will be increasingly significant in coming years.
■ Artificial Intelligence. AI is transforming how humans and machines interact in a shared environment. The availability of data about how people work, what their emotional state is while work- ing and how they engage with equipment and the world around them will likely lead us to a whole new level of industrial safety.
The information herein is provided as a general reference regarding the use of the applicable product(s) in specific applications. This infor- mation is provided without warranty. It is your responsibility to en- sure that you are using all mentioned products properly in your specific application and in accordance with all laws and regulations.
Walt Swietlik has more than 35 years of experience in the material handling industry, with more than 30 of those dedicated to the area of loading dock and door safety and improved productivity. For the past two decades, Walt has managed Rite-Hite’s popular “Customer Fly- In Program,” where he works closely with a variety of customers to address the challenges associated with shipping and receiving areas. Walt has spoken at a variety of local, regional and national forums, including ProMat and MODEX.
REFERENCES
http://cdn.modexshow.com/seminars/assets-2014/132.pdf
www.ohsonline.com
Circle 1 on card.