In the ever-evolving landscape of technology, data collection is a pivotal process for driving safety improvements. Accordingly, HIT-NOT is an advanced proximity alert system that harnesses the power of data collection. By gathering data, HIT-NOT can identify patterns and trends that may be used to improve safety measures and prevent future accidents.
But what is proximity alert data collection and why does it matter? Well, let’s have a look.
Data Collection Method
Data collection is the process of gathering and measuring information on targeted variables. That information then provides answers to relevant questions and the ability to evaluate outcomes. Likewise, HIT-NOT uses proximity alert system sensors and various data collection methods. Each collection method has its strength.
- Facility Marker Modules: These devices, used to specifically monitor movements of forklifts and other powered vehicles, are placed throughout the facility to track traffic flow, keep a record of proximity events between equipment and people, and help identify high-risk areas in the work area. The data is stored and then transmitted to a database for later viewing.
- Personal Alarm Devices (PADs): Worn by pedestrians, these devices serve as a personal warning beacon and alert when working around forklifts. They also provide real-time data from the user’s perspective. The information can be used by management to make appropriate decisions that protect workers.
- Access/Area Control Sensors: Leveraging cutting-edge technology, HIT-NOT captures a wealth of environmental data. This includes everything from how many times a forklift/truck has passed a specific area to violations of controlled mechanized areas.
These methods all combine to contribute to precise remote monitoring. The state-of-the-art devices empower HIT-NOT to remain at the forefront of proximity alert system innovation and reliability.
Types of Data Collected
HIT-NOT employs a comprehensive approach to data collection. Not only does it detect hazards, but it also collects data and performs data analysis that enhances its capabilities. The types of data it collects include:
- Location Data: HIT-NOT provides exact locations of where proximity events occurred, which assists in enhanced situational awareness. This helps workers avoid potentially hazardous contact with equipment.
- User Interaction Data: Provides behavior patterns, proximity, and response times of drivers, pedestrians, and equipment. Tracking the engagement of all parties allows a thorough understanding of safety dynamics.
- Time-Based Event Data: Pinpoints accurate time stamps of when warning alerts and facility marker modules were triggered.
While these three data points give a general overview of the types of data collected, here is a more specific breakdown of what is captured:
- PAD warning/danger alerts
- PAD/Truck inactivity
- Vehicle run time
- Battery strength
- Magnetic field generator sizes
- Heat maps for proximity events
- Total weekly proximity events
- Last known location of forklift/truck
- Collision avoidance alerts between vehicles
- Collision avoidance from marked structures
This list is by no means a complete rundown of HIT-NOT data collection. It extends beyond mere tracking and offers a holistic view of people, equipment, traffic patterns, safety hazards, and response times.
Importance of Real-Time Data
Real-time data emerges as the cornerstone of HIT-NOT’s approach to safety alerts. In a world where speed is of the essence, real-time data impacts accident prevention. Some ways that real-time data makes a difference include:
- Instant Insight: The ability to offer immediate feedback on when and where a proximity event happened allows for swift responses to potential hazards.
- Competitive Edge: Keeping employees safe and equipment operational means enhanced productivity. Greater productivity helps provide an advantage over competitors.
- Morale Boost: The instantaneous nature of real-time data allows employers to implement quick response protocols. This agility reduces the window of risk and helps to reinforce positive perceptions of a company’s commitment to employee safety.
Pertinent Fact: No HIT-NOT user properly utilizing the system has ever reported a struck-by incident.
Data Privacy and Security
As security and safety devices become more advanced, data privacy and data security have become bigger concerns. Here are ways the HIT-NOT proximity alert system addresses those fears:
- Regulatory Compliance: Adhering to stringent data regulations, HIT-NOT prioritizes compliance with privacy laws. This also includes compliance with employee and consumer privacy laws.
- Transparency: Being open about data collection methods and usage helps build trust with employers, employees, and the customer base. HIT-NOT® can pinpoint the exact location of an employee and equipment while the system is used; however, it does not utilize financial or personal information of employees.
When it comes to overall data encryption in warehouses and on worksites, it is wise for the company itself to use up-to-date encryption algorithms to protect proprietary company information and their employees’ personal identifiable information.
Analyzing and Utilizing Data
Another important step in the data collection journey is analyzing and utilizing that data. To get actionable insights, data goes through a thorough examination. Ultimately, these proximity alert system insights assist with:
- Identifying job patterns: Identifying patterns that create hazardous situations helps determine the most accident-prone shifts, evaluate areas with frequent warning/danger events, and assess truck speeds during accidents.
- Driving competent safety protocols: Using data proficiently will make worksite operations and protocols more efficient. This helps refine processes and remain aligned with state and federal laws.
- Recognizing behavioral patterns: Understanding user response to alerts will contribute to modifying safety protocols based on real-world scenarios and human behavior.
- Implementing zone-specific risk assessment: Analyzing data helps create zone/site-specific risk assessments to tailor safety measures to identified hazards.
HIT-NOT data analysis offers insights that businesses can leverage for safety enhancement. Data collection is fundamental to accident prevention and overall safety. Understanding the types of data collected, the methods used to gather them, and how the data is analyzed and utilized empowers organizations to unlock the full potential of the information at their fingertips.
For more information on HIT-NOT data collection, contact SynTech. We have over 40 years of experience providing training and equipment to work sites. We are also the #1 sales and service provider of the HIT-NOT proximity alert system. Let us help you protect your people and property. Call us at (256)571-5024 to learn more.