There are two types of technologies for alerting workers in the moment to safety issues: wearables and AI cameras. Wearables struggle with scalability and are limited to specific use cases. AI camera technology offers scalability, versatility, and cost-efficiency but requires careful consideration of user...
When it comes to alerting the worker in the moment, two technologies have emerged as frontrunners: wearables and Artificial Intelligence (AI) camera technology. While wearables have found success in niche applications such as gas detection, their widespread adoption has faced challenges. On the other hand, AI camera systems offer scalability and versatility, revolutionizing the way workplaces approach safety monitoring. In this blog post, we will explore the strengths and limitations of both technologies, shedding light on the key considerations for businesses aiming to prioritize safety.
Wearables have proven their efficacy in specific applications, particularly when gas detection is paramount. However, the challenges associated with their widespread adoption beyond gas detection cannot be ignored. One of the major hurdles is the lack of scalability.
Every worker needs to wear a device, leading to increased costs as the workforce expands. Maintenance, replacement, and fleet management contribute to the overall operational expenses. Wearables either need to be recharged regularly or have their batteries replaced. Workers need to remember to put them on before each shift. These wearable devices tend to get lost or stolen. On worksites with many contractors, you need to provide the wearable and training to every contractor in addition to employees. Wearables are more easily broken than stationary cameras because they are exposed to more elements and conditions. But with camera-based AI systems, we can be selective about where we place the cameras to get the best view while keeping the cameras safe.
Moreover, wearables are often limited to single applications, tying them to a specific purpose. If a worker is not wearing the device, they remain unmonitored, leaving potential gaps in safety oversight. This limitation raises questions about the reliability of wearables as a comprehensive solution for monitoring diverse workplace behaviors.
In contrast to wearables, AI camera technology emerges as a scalable and versatile solution for workplace safety. The scalability of cameras is inherently tied to the number of facilities, not the workforce. As a result, costs do not surge with the addition of new workers, making it a cost-efficient choice for businesses experiencing growth.
The versatility of AI camera systems is a game-changer in safety monitoring. These systems can detect a broad spectrum of workplace behaviors beyond specific applications. Whether it is identifying potential hazards, monitoring compliance with safety protocols, or detecting anomalies in real time, AI cameras provide a comprehensive solution that goes beyond the limitations of wearables.
In recent years, many companies have implemented geofence solutions using wearables. We had a customer realize that unauthorized trespassers at shale drilling facilities were not detected because they weren’t wearing a wearable. Therefore, those trespassers were in danger, but nobody was notified so that they could be quickly removed from the dangerous area, putting the people and company at risk. We talked with another customer who manages an exceptionally large offshore drilling rig that has a high number of workers and contractors to track and keep safe. The company was spending more time managing the wearables than getting their work done. We were able to help them by replacing a thousand wearables with two cameras. The cameras track everyone who may enter the areas they designate and give them immediate feedback if they are in a potentially dangerous area.
While AI camera technology offers undeniable advantages, it is crucial to address concerns related to user compliance and privacy. Wearables, being personal devices, rely on the willingness of individuals to consistently wear them. On the other hand, AI camera systems operate more passively, removing the reliance on individual compliance but raising privacy considerations. Striking a balance between ensuring safety and respecting privacy becomes paramount in the adoption of these technologies. Check out our earlier blog article on how to address these issues with your company: https://www.workvis.io/blog/ai-cameras-in-safety-is-it-your-brothers-keeper-or-big-brother/
In the ongoing debate between wearables and AI camera technology in the realm of workplace safety, it is evident that each technology has its strengths and challenges. Wearables, though successful in niche applications, struggle with scalability and are limited to specific use cases. AI camera technology, on the other hand, offers scalability, versatility, and cost-efficiency but requires careful consideration of user compliance and privacy.
Ultimately, the choice between wearables and AI camera technology depends on the unique needs and challenges of each workplace. Businesses must carefully weigh the pros and cons to determine the most effective and sustainable solution for ensuring the safety of their workforce. As technology continues to advance, the future of workplace safety may very well be a hybrid approach that leverages the strengths of both wearables and AI camera systems.