It is often said that many employers in New York prioritize profits over the safety of employees. This could be because many business owners might feel that placing the focus on workplace safety can jeopardize profits by distracting attention from production. However, rapid technological changes have started to provide safety options that can be practical without compromising productivity.
Robotics is one such advance that is becoming part of many workplaces, often used to do repetitive tasks, allowing humans to do more complicated jobs. Repetitive strain injuries can be eliminated by using robots, and they do not suffer the typical consequences of working with hazardous chemicals. Another piece of smart technology is a safety clip that is attached to worker’s belt to record any trip-and-fall accident and alert supervisors. A single push of a button can also report trip hazards to be removed without the need for the worker to leave his or her workstation.
Although research continues, machines like loaders, haulers and excavators that are less noisy are being developed to limit noise exposure. Excessive noise can cause hearing loss and conditions such as tinnitus and even disabling occupational deafness. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health has developed an app that can help determine the safest angle for positioning ladders. This can limit the number of fall accidents involving ladders.
One more bit of technology is a device that can be worn to alert workers about excessive vibration exposure. Millions of workers suffer from hand-arm vibration syndrome as the result of prolonged use of vibrating power tools. As technology advances, fewer work hours will be lost due to the lack of workplace safety. However, in the meantime, New York workers who are injured on the job can seek workers’ compensation benefits to provide financial assistance with medical expenses and lost wages, and experienced attorneys can help navigate the claims process.
Source: forconstructionpros.com, Technology-driven Safety Revolution Making Construction Sites Safer”
