How can resilient IoT make remote sites safer for workers?

Worker safety is a top priority for organizations across many industries, particularly in remote or hazardous environments – it’s estimated that businesses in the US alone paid $163.9 billion on workplace injuries in 2020.  

Internet of Things (IoT) technology could be the answer. Modern devices are capable of enhancing worker safety across even the most hazardous of settings – but only when the information being collected by devices can be reliably moved to those responsible for keeping workers safe.  

Whether it’s a remote wind construction project or maintenance of assets on a broadacre farm, understanding conditions can be critical to keeping a workforce safe. 

So how can IoT enhance worker safety, and how important is reliable connectivity for the successful deployment of these technologies? 

Real-time Monitoring and Alerts: 

IoT-enabled sensors and wearable devices can monitor various aspects of worker safety in real-time. These devices can track vital signs, detect hazardous gases, measure temperature, monitor noise levels, and more. By continuously collecting and analyzing data, IoT devices can identify potential safety risks and send instant alerts to both workers and supervisors. For example, if a worker’s heart rate exceeds a certain threshold or if a toxic gas leak is detected, immediate alerts can be triggered, allowing for prompt action and potentially preventing accidents or injuries. 

Location Tracking and Emergency Response: 

On remote sites, accidents or medical emergencies can pose significant challenges due to limited resources and difficulties in reaching the affected area in time. IoT technology can provide accurate and real-time location tracking of workers as well as enable geofencing – so supervisors are aware of what workers may be in hazardous areas. This information is invaluable for quick response and efficient deployment of resources during dangerous situations. 

Environmental Monitoring: 

Remote sites often expose workers to various environmental hazards, such as extreme temperatures, high humidity, or unstable ground conditions. IoT sensors can continuously monitor these environmental factors and relay crucial data to a centralized system. By analyzing this data, organizations can identify potential risks, implement preventive measures, and create safer working conditions for their employees. The information gathered can also feed predictive models that allow for action to be taken before extreme conditions impact those working on remote sites, and team scheduling can be tailored accordingly. 

The Importance of Reliable Connectivity: 

To fully leverage the benefits of IoT for worker safety on remote sites, reliable connectivity is paramount. Patchy or unreliable communication can hinder the transmission of critical data, compromising the effectiveness of IoT solutions.  

Krucial CONNECT digitizes any site or assets quickly and easily, immediately connecting the IoT devices that enhance worker safety regardless of location. Using a combination of cellular and multiple satellite backhaul to move data to the cloud – and switching automatically between them depending on availability – Krucial gives supervisors and workers the peace of mind they need to operate in any environment.