Rosendin

D. Scott Risch, VP of EHS at Rosendin

At a time when the labour market is stretched thin and workloads are at an all-time high, there has never been a greater need for the implementation of technology. When properly used, technology can ease the administrative burden placed on safety professionals, allowing them the opportunity to spend more time in the field or plant environment, doing what they love – keeping people safe. Technology can also be used as early warning devices, communicating things that we may be unaware of. For example, when weather stations detect an approaching storm, safety professionals know to take the next 15 minutes to activate severe weather protocols such as lowering crane booms, stopping exterior operations, securing materials, and preparing crews until storms safely pass. Personal devices can also be worn that monitor core temperature, speed, height and angle could potentially detect when someone is putting their body in a compromising position. There is even a personal electrical proximity alarm that can be worn to provide advanced warning when there is a threat of electrical exposure. Most of these devices are in the early stages of development, but in the future, they will be smaller, more affordable, and integrated into the safety gear we are already wearing. Technology has come a long way and it’s exciting to be able to be a part of progress every day. The future is exciting.