Ep 209 - Beyond the Shiny Object: Implementing Safety Technology with Kenna Stanley

In this episode of #ProveItPod, we dive into the complex world of workplace #safety #technology with Kenna Stanley. It’s easy to get distracted by the "shiny object" of new tech, but as we discuss today, successful implementation comes down to #culture, #readiness, and the human element. We explore the gap between academic #research and real-world application, the very real danger of alert fatigue, and why asking your workers two simple questions might be the best first step you can take.

Key Takeaways:

• Culture over Infrastructure: Having the IT resources to implement tech is only half the battle. Without cultural buy-in and worker engagement, even the best tools will be sunsetted within a year.
• Beware of Alert Fatigue: Technology should enhance safety without overwhelming the worker. Too many notifications can lead to the "boy who cried wolf" effect, rendering proximity sensors and wearables useless.
• The Two Magic Questions: Not sure where to start? Ask your workers: Where is our next fatality going to happen? and What can we do about it? * Bridging the Research Gap: Why EHS professionals need systematic, unbiased reviews of safety tech rather than relying solely on siloed lab studies or vendor sales pitches.

About Our Guest: Kenna Stanley is a Research Manager with the National Safety Council, where she specializes in workplace safety, technology adoption, and human-centered innovation. With a background in criminology and behavioral science from the University of Florida, she brings together data and human factors to shape practical strategies to make workplaces safer and more secure. Connect with Kenna on LinkedIn

Resources Mentioned:

Work to Zero Digital Readiness Assessment

NSC Spring Safety Summit – (Join us on May 6^th for the Safety Technology Workshop!)