It seems hard now to imagine a life without iPads and Android devices. Smart phones and tablets have changed the way children and adults are learning, businesses are running, gamers are playing and even quality and productivity rates on job sites. A blog issued from the ASSE speaks about how the application of mobile devices and technology can cut costs and increase safety. URS, an engineering and construction company started using iPads in 2012 on two different sites. They found that the iPads cut the cost of office supplies, travel time, downtime and improved the way their on-site data was being collected.
How can a company start to use these devices and what applications are good ones to try out? In the ASSE blog Clint Wolfley, the Safety and Health Manager for URS Tank Operations in Hanford, WA gives a few suggestions on applications to get started with:
1.) iConstructSafe: This app offers tips on how tools should be safely used. Based on OSHA standards, these video clips are meant for on-site construction workers. This is available free from the App Store.
2.) iAuditor: This app gives safety professionals thousands of templates to manipulate and share to create inspection forms. Safety professionals can create check lists, perform assessments, and incorporate images into the audits. All of these forms can be saved or forwarded back to the office. This app is available for free from the App Store or the Android Market.
3.) OSHA Heat Tool: This app shows users how to calculate the heat index and safety risk at job sites. It gives guides towards protection at different levels. This app is available for free from the App Store or the Android Market.
4.) Professional Development CIH/C SP Quiz: These apps help professionals study for the Certified Safety Professional exam and the Certified Industrial Hygienist exams while on the go. This app is available for free from the App Store or the Android Market.
These apps were taken directly from the ASSE blog but I am sure there are thousands more out there that can help safety professionals and managers in numerous ways. SLIPNOT Metal Safety Flooring also offers resources like ready to use checklists on our website. White papers are also offered as a way to educate readers.
Lally, Siobhan. “Improving Safety with the Swipe of a Finger.” EHS Works. www.ehsworks1.blogspot.com. August 8, 2013. August 16, 2013. < http://ehsworks1.blogspot.com/2013/08/improving-safety-with-swipe-of-finger.html>
