As technology continues to grow, we see it intertwining itself into every area of our lives – and work is no exception! While the construction industry has been slower in the adoption of technology, it is now recognizing the enormous benefits of implementing technology on the job site. Wearable technology is one trend that is beginning to gain traction within the industry. Through wearable devices, the construction industry can collect information and communicate easier than ever before.
Before we dive deeper into the benefits of wearable technology, let’s take a look at some of the different types of wearables.
Smart Vests – This new and innovative wearable technology has GPS capabilities, vital monitoring, emergency buttons and built-in alert systems. While still very new to the industry, smart vests offer enormous benefits for all construction workers.
Smart Helmet – Another new and exciting wearable technology, smart helmets include features such as fall impact detection, emergency alerts and video recording.
Smart Glasses – This wearable technology gives workers the ability to record videos and receives instructions from more skilled workers or managers off-site in real-time.
To better understand the benefits of wearable technologies such as these, let’s take a look at some of the specific ways that they’re changing day-to-day work on the construction site.
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One of the biggest benefits of wearable technology in construction is the safety improvements. Wearable devices are typically worn on a worker’s waist belt, allowing for constant connection with site supervisors. If an accident occurs, wearable technologies can help to save lives through slip and fall detection. Through GPS technology, it can alert supervisors and give them a worker’s exact location. Injuries can be extremely time-sensitive, highlighting the importance of responding and acting as quickly as possible.
Manual headcounts and safety checks are prone to error and extremely time-consuming. Wearable technology streamlines the process,, giving you a more accurate and thorough set of data. Instant data collection also allows the manager or supervisor to spend their time working on other areas that need their attention. This results in more efficient project management and enhanced safety on the job site!
It’s no secret that the construction industry’s skilled workforce is slowly dwindling. To make matters worse, there isn’t a huge influx of incoming workers. This is especially true when it comes to millennials. The best way to fix this problem? Technology! Young professionals have grown up with technology and want to see it being used in their workplace. If the construction industry wants to attract talented young workers, wearable technology is a great place to start. By implementing the latest forms of technology the construction industry can show the world that they are as innovative as every other industry!
Wearable technology gives workers the ability to communicate in real-time. Gone are the days of chasing down other workers or playing phone tag! Wearable technology keeps you connected to your team members at all times and ensures that everyone is kept in the loop.
Our world is not the same world that it used to be and it’s crucial that the construction industry recognizes that. If construction companies want to stay relevant, they must invest in new and innovative tools such as wearable technology. These tools will not only attract new workers but will also make life easier for everyone on the site. The time for technology adoption is now, so what are you waiting for?
1. What are some examples of wearable technology used in the construction industry?
2. How does wearable technology improve safety on construction sites?
3. How does wearable technology streamline data collection in construction?
4. Why is wearable technology attractive to millennials in the construction industry?
5. How does wearable technology enhance communication among construction workers?
6. Why is it important for the construction industry to adopt new and innovative tools like wearable technology?
7. When is the right time for the construction industry to adopt wearable technology?
Sources:
Readwrite.com | Wearable Tech Transforming the Construction Industry