Kenzen develops body heat sensor for predictive worker safety

You can see the original article in Equipment Journal, here.

Smart PPE developer Kenzen has launched a wearable real-time worker heat monitoring system.

The cloud-based Software as a Service (SaaS) system includes a wearable device worn by workers on their arm, which alerts both the worker and their supervisor when core body temperature is too high.

Real-time alerts allow for immediate intervention and worker safety from heat injuries.

Kenzen tech

The wearable tech, via its advanced sensor, monitors multiple physiological and environmental metrics, including heart rate, activity, skin, and ambient temperatures. The sensor data allows for the real-time prediction of core body temperature, providing alerts to workers and supervisors when temperatures approach unsafe levels.

“The Kenzen system is all about prediction and prevention. Heat-related injuries are 100 percent preventable, but potentially deadly and difficult to detect until it’s too late,” said Heidi Lehmann, Kenzen’s chief commercialization officer.

Kenzen’s multi-level alerts are sent to workers via device vibration, iOS or Android app notification and to supervisors via web dashboard alert signaling the worker should take a break and to allow their temperature to return to safe levels.

Alerts are accompanied by actionable recommendations such as advising the worker to take a break, find shade, drink water, or remove any excess clothing and equipment to decrease body heat.

When the worker’s core body temperature has returned to a safe level, a second “back to work” alert notifies the employee.

Data captured by the system can be used to help companies identify heat risk and manage outcomes by adapting worksites accordingly to improve worker safety while maximizing productivity.

Modifications may include changes to work-rest schedules, where and when to add water and shade stations, the addition of air-conditioned rest areas, and even recommendations for pre-staging ice-bath locations in case of extreme weather and working conditions.

The data can also inform decisions around workplace expenditures such as certain equipment and clothing.

The Kenzen system has been tested on worksites of large industrial conglomerates across the globe in domains such as construction, field services, power, oil, and gas as well as renewable energy.