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change when data collected is studied to build a picture of what is happening and who is putting themselves at risk. By approaching the problem in two ways—at the worker awareness level and through data analysis—real improvements can be generated in terms of workforce safety.
Predicting Safety Risks Through Data Analytics. On top of those identified above, unrecognized risks can exist in any working environment and cause worker safety incidents resulting in unexpected downtime and costs. Connected safety solutions coupled with data science and analytics can identify hazards before they harm workers or damage equipment. The ability to detect patterns through connected device readings allows safety managers and operators to take proactive steps.
For example, repeat fall detection alerts in the same location may indicate a slippery surface. Taking proactive measures by cleaning, de-icing or redesigning the site layout can protect workers from serious falls and keep operations running smoothly and workers on the job.
For scenarios requiring gas detection, all gas reading data from safety wearables is collected and streamed to the cloud, powering data analytics for visualization and insights into areas with potential risk. Gas levels below the threshold for alarms typically go unnoticed by workers until an incident occurs. But reporting on these low-level environmental readings enables proactive lead
detection and repair. Preventative maintenance can go a long way to mitigate a potentially major incident in the future.
Connected Safety to Improve Outcomes
Connecting workers in dangerous environments like construction sites can ensure everyone is accounted for—at all times. Data analytics provided by a connected solution furthermore enable potential risks to be identified and incidents avoided, improving outcomes for workers in the construction industry and driving down the number of workplace injuries and fatalities year-over- year.
Brendon Cook holds the position of Chief Partnership Officer at Blackline Safety, where he is responsible for Blackline Catalyst, a global partner program that exists to accelerate growth and innovation as enterprise around the world transform digitally. He co- founded Blackline Safety in 2004 and has supported its early growth as a technology leader, and in recent years, oversaw its marketing communications programs. Prior to Blackline, Brendon worked for Calgary-based CSI-Wireless (now Hemisphere GNSS). As its Product and Marketing Manager, he developed relationships with various international organizations and managed the company’s precision product portfolio. Brendon was awarded a B.Sc. in Geomatics Engineering from the University of Calgary in 1996.
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