There’s An App For That
How many times have we been instructed to “download the app here.” The word “app” is an abbreviation for “application.” Applications are software programs meant to keep us connected to friends and family, perform a function in our lives and be fun! If your home screen looks anything like mine, the apps I use each day are front and center.
In this monthly special, we’ll spend time finding the apps that make your life easier and highlight how, when you have a need, there’s probably an app for that!
SAFETY APPS
If you work in manufacturing, then you know the focus is more than just getting products out the door. You also need to be keenly committed to keeping your workforce safe and preventing injuries on the job.
What makes safety apps so effective is that, just like your employees, they go everywhere! These apps provide specific information in a short amount of time and are designed to be user-friendly and value-added.
Here are 10 of the top safety workplace apps that provide safety information for smart manufacturers whenever and wherever needed.
#1 First Aid App
The official First Aid app, by the American Red Cross, puts expert information in the palm of your hand. Easy-to-digest, step-by-step instruction lets workers and managers quickly and efficiently address an array of mishaps, accidents, and serious injuries.
Key Features:
- Use in English or Spanish
- Integrated with 911
- Assisted video learning
Cost: Free
#2 Heat Safety Tool
While many things are within your company’s control, hazardous weather isn’t one of them. That’s why having accurate and up-to-date information on current weather conditions is important.
Workers and supervisors calculate weather conditions and make educated decisions using OSHA’s Heat Safety Tool. The app will compute health risk levels; prompt users on wearing and using protective gear; remind workers to take breaks, drink water, etc. It’s an all-in-one guide for all industries and related tasks.
Key Features:
- Calculate the heat index of a work area
- Provides heat illness signs and symptoms
- Displays warnings of possible threats for workers
Cost: Free
#3 Ladder Safety App
Many ladder-related accidents are preventable. Aside from taking risks and lacking spotters, workers may wrongly angle ladders, which leads to injury and health hazards. The Ladder Safety app uses visual and sound signals to position the ladder in the safest position.
Key Features:
- Suited with multimodal indicator
- Offers interactive reference material
Cost: Free
#4 Ergonomic App
For many workers, the day offers limited or no field work, yet, ironically, sitting for long periods poses health risks. The Ergonomics app is full of equipment advice, workplace specific stretch exercises, and prompts that remind users to take breaks. Stretches feature original illustrations and succinct instruction.
Key Feature:
- Provides workplace specific exercises
- Features original illustrations
- Includes a countdown timer
Price: $0.99
#5 iAuditor Checklist
iAuditor is used by thousands of inspection workers each day, all across the globe. Users build forms according to industry. The automatic sync feature allows managers to self-audit teams in real time as data loads to office computers. Use the checklist to manage risk and avoid costly penalties and violations.
Key Features:
- Customize reports
- Drag and drop interface
- Export preferred report format
Price: Free
#6 Sling Calculator
How can you aid in avoiding catastrophe? Through methodical calculation. The Sling Calculator avoids mishaps by helping to select rigging while considering the shape of the load. Sling tension measurements can be determined and sent via a PDF to cohorts and managers for confirmation and redirection.
Key Features:
- Specify desired unit of measurement
- Compute volume and weight to avoid hazards
- Choose among one of four bridle configurations
Price: $24.99
#7 Noise Sniffer
The Noise Sniffer is not multi-functional. It’s a simple tool with one mission: save workers from dangerous noise levels. Once a user hits start, the app measures noise levels in the immediate area and provides a decibel readout. Levels above 60 dB are considered very-to-extremely loud and require resolution.
Key Features:
- Features start/stop button
- Calculate the decibel level of immediate area
- Warns of potentially hazardous noise levels
Price: $0.99
#8 Chemical Hazards Pocket Guide
The Chemical Hazards Pocket Guide helps first responders identify and protect others in the wake of a chemical-related accident. Each chemical is aligned with its aliases and trade names along with a physical description advising whether it’s dangerous to inhale, if it’s flammable, etc.
Key Features:
- Provides concise industrial hygiene information
- Helps first responders provide aid
- Provides offline access
Cost: $7.99
Not Available on Google Play
#9 Safety Compass
The Safety Compass leverages augmented reality to relay information about potentially hazardous conditions and materials out in the field. Rather than bulky and lengthy physical manuals, workers and managers access the Safety Compass with ease. You can tailor it to comply with your workplace and conditions.
Key Features:
- Remotely add hazard tags
- Use camera to relay visual information
- Provides integral safety information straight to worker’s phone
Price: Free
#10 Super Bright Flashlight
The Super Bright Flashlight app makes a worker’s phone into a powerful source of light. This is an app that is not likely to get a lot of use in the field since workers are equipped with tools. However, it’s incredibly convenient, and in worst cases, can save a worker from a serious injury in dire situations.
Key Features:
- Use on/off switch
- Use strobe/blinking mode to signal emergency
- Leverage app when flashlight is unavailable or forgotten
Price: Free
#11 Hazard Scout
Hazard Scout is popular with managers because it allows for streamlined reporting. Managers write reports, add pictures and videos, and take notes while in the field. Help resolve past and present issues and avoid future violations and obstructions to workflow. Get trends, graphs, and summary reports.
Key Features:
- Receive push notifications
- Scan QR codes for personnel and equipment
- Submit reports offline
Price: Free
What’s the app that YOU find most helpful on a day-to-day basis? Send your thoughts to WritingTeam@pmgservices.com.
Have a safe day!
Brenda Lovitz, Risk & Safety Manager
