Sights from the Show Floor: Day 2
Easy functionality and smart technology are working against each other, and a lot of companies are trying to find the middle ground.
As technology evolves, products like mobile devices, gps navigators and other items continue to get smaller and use less buttons. This is great for users who want to keep everything in their pockets and can easily access them. It is a problem, however, for those in the field who have to wear bulky safety gear and are often encumbered by thick gloves.
Here at the NSC Expo, companies are trying to bring their workers into the digital age while also making their products easier to use. Honeywell has introduced their concept of the connected worker and their drive to be the “Apple of the industrial world” by introducing the ConneXt real-time wireless gas detection device. This device integrates biometrics, GPS, and gas and radiation detection. Their MicroclipXL introduces a smaller-sized gas detector with improved battery life; two things that are possible due to improving tech.
Magid is also looking to improve the weight of their products with the introduction of the GPD800, a lightweight glove that achieves ANSI Cut Level 5 while using a 13-gauge knit shell. Because of the lighter material, this glove also improves dexterity. With smaller devices comes the need for workers’ hands to be flexible enough to utilize them.
Streamlight sees the need for easy functionality as well. Their Double Clutch USB rechargeable headlamp features facecap twists for easy use, even with gloves.
The safety industry is slowly entering the digital age, and for that to happen effectively, companies are looking at ways to make their products smarter while also being easier to use. It’s a tough challenge given the desire for devices to be smaller and sleeker, but there seems to be a nice middle ground being carved out at the NSC Expo.