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The study shows increased acceptance but highlights barriers to widespread adoption.
A new report from the National Safety Council (NSC) underscores the role of technology in mitigating workplace hazards and fatalities. “Safety Technology 2024: Examining Trends in Technology Solutions Used to Reduce Serious Injuries and Fatalities in the Workplace” reveals nearly 5,500 fatal work injuries in 2022, a 6 percent increase from the previous year.
According to a recent release, the NSC’s Work to Zero initiative—launched with funding from the McElhattan Foundation in 2019—focuses on educating employers about technological safety enhancements. Following its initial 2020 research, Work to Zero’s updated 2023 report aims to assess the evolution of safety technology implementation and its impact.
“At the heart of Work to Zero’s mission is preventing worker injuries and ultimately saving lives,” NSC’s Senior Director of Workplace Programs Katherine Mendoza said in a statement. “Since the initiative began, what we have found is that there are numerous technology solutions available to employers to help mitigate risks and keep workers safe. However, workplace hazards are constantly evolving as job demands change, which is why it’s critical to regularly assess industry risks to better understand trends and find the right solutions. This report does precisely that with a focus on the impact of safety technology implementation over a three-year period.”
Key findings from the report include increased exposure to risks such as fatigue, heavy equipment operation and working at height. In fact, fatigue remains the top risk and the largest contributor to injuries. The survey—which included high-risk industry participants—also noted a significant rise in concern over workplace violence.
The adoption of risk management software, proximity sensors and drones has notably increased since 2020. However, barriers to widespread adoption persist, including resource constraints, privacy concerns and a need for greater understanding of current technology. Nevertheless, 83 percent of employees expressed openness to using new safety technologies.
For more information on how to access the full report, visit the NSC website.
About the Author
Robert Yaniz Jr. is the Content Editor of Occupational Health & Safety.
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