New Hires Need Safety - Part 3/6 – The Right Expert Tested Technology

With new hires you should ensure that you have created a complete list of duties, done a full risk evaluation of related interactions and created a risk offset training program for them before they have even started.  There is no school like the old school – which means looking at what you have in place already and then carefully evaluating your reliance on the new and latest technologies that you may be using or that they may be bringing. 

Often existing risk assessments are outdated as organizations are continually evolving.  There can be new technologies deployed but sometimes they can misinform, be inaccurate, or even encourage unsafe practices.

The Rise of “Miracle” Tech - from wearable gadgets that promise overnight recovery to data analytics platforms claiming instant game-changing insights, and most industries are filled with technologies that sound too good to be true.  In many cases, these tools are developed or heavily marketed by firms more focused on profit than on actual human physiology. These tools may not have any scientific backing, or even real-world third-party validation.  These types of products can add significant risk to onboarding as they may misinform management and employees, provide inaccurate or irrelevant data, and encourage unsafe training or rehabilitation.

To properly vet technology effectively request peer-reviewed evidence as testimonials or marketing brochures alone are not sufficient proof.  Seek reviews from people in your field, colleagues or experts.  Conduct pilot studies that test the technology with a small group under tight supervision.  Ensure you monitor performance metrics, injury/incident rates, and feedback before broad adoption.  Pay attention to what your staff are saying and doing.

Conclusion:

Remain Skeptical of “Too Good to Be True” Claims.  In the end technology is just one tool.  Roll out the safety training program for new employees during their orientation. Make it mandatory for all new hires to attend and complete the training before they begin their work duties. Provide them with a detailed schedule and make sure they understand the importance of the training and your work processes.

Be careful of over-reliance on new Technology.  At the same time, keep an open mind to win-win changes that actually benefit you, your company and your employees.