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measuring the amount of time and distance that it is in proximity to other tags. For large organizations, this process will need to be automated to avoid hours spent fifinding, fifiling and re-keying mountains of statistics. Tags equipped with the right wireless technology and algorithm-based analytical capabilities will be able to do this automatically and provide meaningful results that can be used to base decisions on an individual’s infection risk.
Looking for a tag with analytical features will ensure that any data stored can be transformed into informative, visual maps and risk percentages for individuals. Armed with the knowledge of high and low-risk workers, employers will be able to manage the situation effectively, for example, by rearranging a workplace, putting up dividers, staggering break times or simply opening the conversation to those involved to see how their safety can be improved.
Future Use
Nearly 90 percent of EHS professionals feel technology is essential or valuable to EHS management success.5 While the value behind social distancing systems is obvious now, its longer-term benefit after the pandemic may be less clear. Choosing social distancing tags that can be adapted with additional infrastructure, typically wall mounted devices, can ensure future use cases in the form of Real-Time Location Systems. RTLS can track the indoor location of people and equipment in real time, meaning people can be excluded from certain zones, which can be a huge benefit for safety
and security. In addition, social distancing tags can be used to keep people away from hazards such as moving vehicles, which can reduce risk within a workplace.
In the post-pandemic workplace, ensuring a safe working environment while establishing a ‘new normal’ is paramount. ThThis means maintaining social distancing, implementing policies and procedures and limiting the possibility of exposure to the virus. Social distancing technology with actionable, data-driven insights can improve productivity, save money and, ultimately, lives.
Tim Turney serves as the Global Marketing Manager at Casella. REFERENCES
1. https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/coronavirus-covid-19- meeting-with-others-safely-social-distancing/coronavirus-covid-19-meeting- with-others-safely-social-distancing
2. ttps://www.washingtonpost.com/nation/2020/05/15/social-distancing- study-coronavirus-spread/
3. https://www.inquirer.com/health/coronavirus/coronavirus-wuhan-math- behind-social-distancing-20200324.html
4. https://www.techrepublic.com/article/73-of-employees-fear-return-to- workplace-will-compromise-personal-health-and-safety/
5. https://research.verdantix.com/report/smart-innovators-industrial- wearables
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