David Thomas, General Manager, ZoneSafe
Serious workplace accidents are disastrous for business, and responsible organisations should take all measures possible to avoid them. In the bid for enhanced safety at work, many companies invest in safety technology. However, the investment is often met with scepticism, resulting in questions and even suspicion around the reasons for the change. Successful implementation and adoption of any new safety technology requires careful consideration and clear purpose.
The Why
Communicating exactly why new technology is being introduced is essential. Everyone affected by the change must fully understand the reasoning behind the decision and the expected improvements it will make. When investing in safety technology, it’s crucial to identify which risks the system will specifically address.
Unfortunately, investment in safety often only happens after an incident has occurred. Whist it’s important to learn from incidents, taking a preventative approach to safety is always better than implementing solutions after someone has been seriously injured.
HSE figures show 138 workers were killed in work-related accidents in the UK in 2023/24. The most common causes of fatal accidents are consistently falls from height, being struck by a moving vehicle, and being struck by a moving object. One of the greatest threats to worker safety lies in workplace transport, mainly where vehicles and people work in close proximity. According to HSE figures, 25 people were killed from being struck by a moving vehicle in 23/24, and many more were seriously injured. Figures like these highlight serious risks in the workplace that must be addressed.
Overcoming Implementation Challenges
When introducing new technology, several challenges typically arise. Lack of buy-in is one of the most common barriers. If users are unconvinced by the new system’s impact, they may fail to use it and/or adopt new rookie practices around it. It’s crucial to help everyone understand how the technology will impact their day-to-day activities and how it improves overall safety at work. Businesses should provide user-friendly information around implementation and the benefits for both the company and the workforce.
Resistance to change is a common issue. Sometimes, people like things the way they are and don’t see the need for change. Users often worry about disruption to their daily routines, especially if they feel the change will slow processes or increase workload.
There may also be fears around excessive personal data collection and over-surveillance of activities. When introducing a new system, reassuring the workforce of the company’s commitment to their safety and well-being is essential. For example, camera systems, proximity warning solutions and data analytics are often perceived as “big brother is watching” when in reality they are there to reduce the risk of accidents and improve safety.
Infrastructure itself can pose a problem. Bringing in any new technology has the potential to upset existing IT and operational systems. It’s important to consider the impact before committing to a chosen product and examine what, if any, effect the introduction will have on existing systems.
Key Factors for Successful Adoption
- Identify and understand the specific challenge or risk being addressed – clear motives for investment are essential. Research thoroughly to ensure the right solution is selected for the associated risk.
- Communicate with the team. Ensure everyone knows why the new system is being implemented and what problem it will solve.
- Provide training. Knowledge is power, and any new system will work best when those using it know its operation and can use it to its full potential.
- Verify that the new solution will integrate successfully with existing systems – seamless integration with established systems is crucial to reduce the risk of failure.
- Explore costs and ensure there are no hidden charges. These can significantly increase the overall investment, so clarify what is included early in the process.
- Measure system success – reflect on how it has improved safety issues.
Measuring Effectiveness
When investing in new safety technology, defined success metrics should be in place:
- Has there been a positive impact on safety?
- Has there been a reduction in near-miss incidents, for example?
- Have workers found the solution beneficial and easy to use?
Measuring success demonstrates real results and greatly supports adoption by providing evidence of the benefits.
Successful adoption of workplace safety technology is much easier to achieve when a clear plan is in place. Communication to all involved is essential and will greatly improve understanding and crucially, buy in. Sadly, workplace accidents happen, but by taking a proactive approach to safety, accidents can be avoided. Safety technology has the power to transform workplace safety and a carefully considered plan with clear communication will greatly increase technology adoption.
