Honeywell Safety Watch provides real time location

June 1, 2023
Device uses radio-frequency identification (RFID)

Safety Watch is a real-time location system (RTLS) designed to enhance the safety of construction workers. Through radio-frequency identification (RFID), the device can monitor an employee's location and provide real-time data, delivering instant alerts and notifications when safety hazards are detected or accidents occur.

Workers wear a wireless tag similar in size to an access card. The device has a long-life battery, and it is outfitted with an RFID chip. The tool wirelessly connects to Safety Watch receivers on site and transmits information to a comprehensive dashboard.

One receiver can identify the number of active Safety Watch devices within a radius of 492 feet; with three on-site receivers, Safety Watch can triangulate a wearer’s location and provide an accurate reading within 10 to 16 feet. To use the device for shift changes and automatic sign in/out, two receivers would be necessary to track separate entry and exit points, ultimately eliminating the need for manual headcounts.

Project managers can determine the parameters of each event and who is notified when certain events occur. For example, the Safety Watch operator can be notified if an employee enters a restricted area, if they have fallen and need an emergency response, or even if they arrive late to work.

The device includes “person-down” technology: If a worker falls or trips, and that incident is followed by no movement, the system will immediately send an alert to the user dashboard and managers, following desired alert protocol. Safety Watch will also automatically detect if an employee has experienced an impact followed by no movement.

The “last known location” feature will allow administrators to track the current whereabouts of workers in case of a major event, such as a construction equipment collapse or explosion, making it easier to locate them and provide emergency assistance.

Wearers can use a physical SOS button in the event of an emergency or accident.

Safety Watch can also measure productivity and monitor a worker’s wellbeing, helping to determine if they are experiencing fatigue or tiredness.

Administrators can obtain real time data on employee count per zone, and in case of an emergency, consolidate information on people that have been accounted for.

Safety Watch operators can ensure that hazardous or dangerous areas are restricted from access and construction protocols onsite are followed. This geo-fencing technology can be used to establish trails and walk paths to enhance safety and track compliance. The same type of geo-fencing can be applied to create automatic sign in/out at access points to account for all workers going in and leaving the site.

Safety Watch can also be used to tag small assets, assisting in controlling inventory and preventing theft. With this capability, the solution can help create instantaneous inventory reports and track any missing item, preventing any unnecessary timing delays and eliminating the need to manually count items across a site.