Wearable technology is changing the prevention, tracking, and treatment of injuries. As such, these devices can play a key role in worker safety and workers’ compensation claims. From tracking body movements to providing real-time health alerts, wearable technology helps reduce risks and support injured workers.
Preventing workplace injuries
Wearable devices like smartwatches, fitness trackers, and specialized safety gear monitor health and physical activity. In physically demanding jobs, sensors can track heart rate, posture, and body temperature. Alerts warn workers and supervisors of fatigue, dehydration, or unsafe lifting. For example, posture monitors detect poor lifting techniques and remind workers to adjust their form.
Smart helmets for construction workers can monitor fatigue and warn of potential falls. In warehouses, wearable sensors are able to map risky movements to improve workflows. These tools reduce the severity of injuries and claims by helping workers avoid dangerous behaviors or conditions. They also give supervisors valuable data to design safer work environments.
Documenting and treating injuries
When accidents happen, wearable technology can provide helpful information. Some devices record the moments and movements leading up to an injury, which helps verify the cause of the incident. GPS-enabled devices can pinpoint the exact time and location of the accident. The data can help identify hazards and support a worker’s claim with additional evidence.
After an injury, wearables can show the full extent of harm and help track recovery. For example, smart devices monitor vital signs, physical activity, and sleep patterns. A comparison of vitals from before and after an accident can show the impact it has had on the injured worker.
Wearables may also encourage proper healing with reminders to take medication or perform exercises. They can also supply evidence that the injured person is following treatment schedules and health routines.
Wearable technology is a tool for reducing workplace injuries and speeding up recovery. Additionally, it can be a resource for important evidence when filing a workers’ compensation claim.
