Since the start of the pandemic, it’s become increasingly apparent that many industries were not prepared for the rapid changes and challenges COVID-19 brought to the table. These challenges have quickly proven just how important proper communication and protocol is, and that not everyone has an established system capable of meeting those needs. In the manufacturing industry, where workers are already faced with a high risk environment, proper protocols and communication are even more integral. Additionally, with the increased demands for supplies placed on many facilities and the responsibility to implement new and constantly changing protocols as a result of COVID-19, manufacturers are overwhelmed. To minimize these burdens, manufacturers should be investing in environmental monitoring and communication technologies that can help them to manage these times effectively and efficiently, while ensuring the safety of their workforce.
Environmental Monitoring
Manufacturing facilities are multifaceted; from operating heavy machinery to monitoring expensive technology, it can be easy to miss a detail that could lead to an accident or slowed production times. Environmental monitoring technology can help manufacturers keep an eye on their entire facility, something that has become increasingly difficult as many facilities are operating with limited staff due to the pandemic. Most manufacturing facilities are already equipped with a variety of environmental monitoring systems, such as fire and smoke detection, cameras, and access control, however, these systems typically operate on separate and siloed platforms. To unlock these systems’ full potential, they should be integrated onto a single automated alerting platform.
When integrated onto an automated alerting platform, these systems are able to work together. For example, if the access control system detected a door was opened, a detailed alert would automatically be sent out to the proper personnel so they could take appropriate action. These alerts would contain specific information such as the door’s location, and they could even show live-video feed from the camera nearest the triggered door. A variety of other systems can also be used with an automated alerting platform to improve lone worker safety, monitor machinery, track important assets, and much more. By integrating these systems, manufacturers can create a holistic environmental monitoring solution, rather than having to manage a variety of individual technologies, helping them to save time, money, and potentially avoid serious accidents.
Mass Notification
An automated alerting platform is also a great way to quickly and effectively communicate with a large workforce. McKinsey & Company’s recent article writes, “Ramping up internal communications is vitally important, including regular sharing of information about the company’s evolving knowledge of the crisis and how it is using that knowledge to protect employees and the organization.” With mass notification as a feature of an automated alerting platform, manufacturers can share this kind of information with the click of a button, on or off site. Staff members can receive these notifications via text, phone call, or email (or a combination of the three for increased redundancy). Whether there is a closure, new protocols, or the need for a simple reminder, manufacturers can contact the people they need to in a timely and efficient manner.
Although COVID-19 has presented a variety of challenges to the manufacturing industry, it hasn’t created new needs. Long after the pandemic has ended, the need for proper communication and a safe working environment will still exist, just as they existed before. Environmental monitoring, automated alerting, and communication technology is not just a good investment to tackle this crisis, but it’s an investment that will continue to benefit manufacturing facilities far into the future. The time is now, and it always has been.
About Amy Jeffs
Amy Jeffs currently serves as Vice President of Status Solutions, and has held various positions within the mission-based organization for the past 13 years. Her primary duties include assisting Status Solutions’ Founder and President with developing and implementing the company’s overall go-to-market strategy. Her past experience includes 20+ years of technology business and marketing at start-ups up to Fortune 500 companies.
