A Scottish company whose technology aims to ensure social distancing is hoping to encourage more small and medium-sized employers to deploy its system in the workplace.
Edinburgh-based Reactec said its Safe-Distance devices will now be available at the same price to all employers, regardless of how many are ordered. First launched earlier this year, Safe-Distance was originally available on a ratcheted discounting system that favoured large orders.
The integrated system includes a wrist-worn device for every member of staff that gives audio, vibratory and visual warnings when it comes within less than two metres of another Safe-Distance device. Reactec chief executive Jacqui McLaughlin said more than 10,000 are currently in use across the UK, primarily within the manufacturing, construction and rail sectors, as well as local authority settings.
READ MORE: Scottish firm Reactec secures funding to develop social distancing tech
“We are determined to play our part in the fight against Covid-19 and we believe that, whether they work for a large or small employer, everyone stands a better chance of avoiding this disease if they adhere to social distancing guidelines,” Ms McLaughlin said.
“Having developed the Safe-Distance system, we want to see it in as many workplaces as possible to help companies to continue to operate – ensuring their staff stay socially distanced while they keep the economy going.”
Dundee-based manufacturer Rautomead has been using the system since shortly after its launch in May. Managing director Brian Frame said it has proven an important tool alongside more standard Covid-19 protection measures.
READ MORE: Social distancing monitor developed by Edinburgh technology firm
“The online analytics have also highlighted the need to modify a few layouts and processes, and to monitor and manage our interactions in a more controlled and safe way,” he said. “The system is without doubt proving a benefit for our employees, and hence to the company.”
Safe-Distance is an adaptation of Reactec’s existing monitoring technology designed to reduce the health damage from exposure to vibration, such as that experienced by workers who regularly use heavy power tools.
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