Manufacturing safety is an important component of a company’s operations. It does more than lower the cost of running a business and helps the bottom line. Manufacturing safety procedures reduce absenteeism, enhance production, and improve quality, morale, and efficiency. Recent US data also suggests that over 13 million workers in the manufacturing industry are exposed to several injury risks. Below are top technologies that can improve safety in your manufacturing facility.
1. Augmented reality and 3D visualization
Augmented Reality (AR) and 3D visualization are two of the most important technological initiatives helping minimize the need for physical barriers in manufacturing facilities. Employees can be instructed more effectively by generating 3D interactive workplace and machine scenarios. 3d interactive technology allows you to zoom in to tiny levels and out to scales that would be impossible to achieve with a standard video camera. You can also utilize 3D video to view inside machinery so that personnel can examine all machine components separately and learn how each piece of equipment works. AR, on the other hand, displays computed-generated data and images on the screen over what users see in real life. This keeps workers or new employees lacking experience from getting too close to potentially harmful equipment if it malfunctions.
2. Drones and robots
Manufacturing robots that execute repetitive and heavy-lifting activities have helped decrease worker accidents. Today, companies can increase worker safety even further by delegating higher-risk jobs to mobile drones and robots. Most robots are designed with ultrasonic safety, which makes lightweight robots safer. For instance, ultrasonic sensors act as anti-collision safety measures in manufacturing technology. Using automated guided vehicles and autonomous mobile robots in smart manufacturing increases safety and efficiency. Always select the right ultrasonic sensor manufacturer for parts and accessories to boost your manufacturing safety.
3. Wearables
You can use wearables in manufacturing facilities to observe workers’ health data and environmental conditions. These devices help workers understand their health while assisting manufacturers in monitoring the health and safety of all staff, particularly those working in dangerous settings. Similar to robots, some wearables like helmets and smartwatches come with sensors to monitor vital signs like temperature, heartbeat, and oxygen levels. Supervisors can use this information to identify employees displaying stress, exhaustion, or strain. This way, they can take preventative measures to improve workers’ safety and boost productivity.
4. 5g network
Manufacturing, storage, and distribution facilities embrace advanced technology requiring stable internet connectivity. Because of the emergence of new technologies adopted by industries, demand for many connected devices, IoT, and bandwidth have also increased. The 5G network technology meets the demand for secure, dependable, and high-speed connectivity. It can reach a maximum of ten gigabits per second, roughly 100 times better than 4G networks. Despite this, there are major concerns about the risk of connectivity failure in manufacturing and warehousing facilities. With so many gadgets reliant on internet access, unexpected connectivity loss can be disastrous.
More modern technologies are required to improve manufacturing safety and storage operations. Unsurprisingly, many sectors implement these technologies to guarantee safety and regulatory compliance.