Technology is transforming WHS practices. Here’s how.

Monitoring Work Health & Safety (WHS) practices have come a long way from the humble clipboard and pen and thanks to technology, the WHS landscape has been revolutionised. Businesses can now choose between a wide range of innovative tools to improve WHS, prevent accidents, manage risks, and enhance compliance with WHS laws.

From cutting-edge software to wearable devices, technology is enabling workplaces to predict, prevent, and respond to hazards like never before. In this article, our experts discuss eight technological tools available to businesses and explain how they allow for safer workplaces.

1. Digital WHS management systems

Digital WHS management platforms allow businesses to streamline safety procedures, centralise documentation, and improve compliance – ensuring businesses are aligned with the Work Health and Safety Act (2011) and state regulations.

These cloud-based systems enable real-time tracking of safety processes, training records, incident reporting, and audits, and eliminate the inefficiencies of paper-based WHS management.

Key features:

• Cloud-based systems accessible from any location.
• Automated reminders for training, inspections, and equipment maintenance.
• Dashboards for tracking safety performance metrics and compliance.

2. Wearable safety technology

Wearable devices equipped with sensors are transforming how hazards are monitored and managed on-site. These devices provide real-time data on worker health and environmental conditions to protect workers – particularly in high-risk industries like construction, mining, and manufacturing.

Some examples include:

• Smart helmets measure impact, detect fatigue, and monitor environmental conditions like heat or toxic gases.
• Smart vests track body temperature, heart rate, and posture to prevent overexertion and musculoskeletal injuries.
• GPS trackers ensure lone workers are monitored and safe in remote areas.

3. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and predictive analytics

AI and predictive analytics use historical data to identify trends, predict hazards, and prevent incidents before they occur. AI-driven insights allow businesses to shift from reactive safety measures to proactive risk management, reducing incidents and saving costs.

This technology can be applied in many ways including:

• Analysing accident reports to identify recurring risks.
• Predicting machinery failures to schedule maintenance and avoid downtime.
• Monitoring worker behaviours to detect potential safety violations.

4. Drones for site inspections

Drones reduce the need for workers to enter high-risk areas, lowering the likelihood of accidents and improving inspection efficiency. They’re becoming a key tool for inspecting large or hazardous worksites without putting workers at risk.

Drones can be used for:

• Inspecting roofs, scaffolding, and elevated workspaces for safety compliance.
• Monitoring construction progress and identifying potential hazards in real-time.
• Surveying confined spaces or dangerous environments like mines.

5. Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) training

VR and AR technologies provide immersive, hands-on training experiences that prepare workers for real-world scenarios in a safe, simulated environment. This method of training can enhance engagement, retention, and skill development – leading to safer practices on-site.

Some real-life applications of this include:

• Simulating high-risk tasks like operating machinery or working at heights.
• Conducting emergency drills, such as fire evacuations or chemical spill responses.
• Visualising complex WHS concepts in 3D for better understanding.

 6. Internet of Things (IoT) and connected devices

IoT devices connect machinery, tools, and safety systems to create smarter workplaces where hazards are detected and managed in real-time. They enable real-time safety monitoring, allowing businesses to act immediately when risks are detected.

Some examples include:

• Connected equipment: alerts operators to unsafe usage or malfunctions.
• Environmental sensors: monitor air quality, temperature, noise levels, and vibration.
• Proximity sensors: warn workers and machine operators about potential collisions.

7. Advanced safety software and mobile apps

Safety software and mobile apps provide workers and managers with tools to manage risks, report incidents, and conduct inspections on the go. Mobile-friendly WHS solutions improve accessibility and ensure safety processes are followed consistently across all sites.

Some key features include:

• Digital checklists for site inspections and audits.
• Incident reporting with photo and video evidence.
• Automated hazard notifications and corrective action tracking.

 8. Automation and robotics

Automation and robotics reduce human involvement in hazardous tasks, improving efficiency, increasing safety, reducing exposure to risks and injuries, and enhancing productivity.

Some examples include:

• Robots for heavy lifting, repetitive tasks, or handling hazardous materials.
• Autonomous vehicles for material transportation on construction sites.
• Automated machinery with built-in safety controls.

Challenges and considerations

While technology offers significant benefits, businesses must:

• Ensure systems are user-friendly and accessible to all workers.
• Provide training to help employees adapt to new tools.
• Regularly review and update technologies to align with evolving WHS standards.

Start building a safer workplace

Technology is transforming WHS, helping businesses predict risks, prevent incidents, and comply with stringent regulations. From wearable devices to AI-driven analytics, these innovations empower organisations to build safer workplaces and protect their most valuable asset: their people.

If you want an Industry-leading WHS management software that’ll have you leading the charge when it comes to safety in your workplace, Citation Safety is your best bet. Our Work Health and Safety Software is a complete safety management system built to help you perfectly manage your business’s health and safety from the top down. Find out more here with a confidential, no-obligation chat.

About our author

Jack Bowkett is a Workplace Health and Safety Consultant at Citation Group. He has an interest in all thing’s safety related and regularly provides pragmatic advice on how businesses can comply with their WHS obligations and create a good working environment.