Safety Trends in Manufacturing

06/28/2023

There’s no better time than now to explore the possibilities of technology and innovation within the manufacturing industry. Relying on data for quick decisions, technology such as digitization, automation, robotics, and AI are revolutionary for this industry. Today’s workforce is given ample opportunities to learn new technologies in their high schools and colleges that will prepare them to enter their careers and learn how to be safe on the job (see a few examples below of just how we’re doing this in South Western Kentucky). Staying safe in the workplace and any place should be a top priority, and our region uses advanced technologies to uplift and streamline practices, creating safer environments for employees. In celebration of National Safety Month here are three safety trends to consider when looking toward the future of your business:

1. Digitization and Automation

All industries depend on data and information for analysis. The ability to gather data easily with precision is appealing. There are modern tools that can accurately monitor conditions without any human intervention, preventing workers from entering avoidable hazards. Having the ability to prevent accidents in the workplace keeps everyone safe and continues efficient work. Hopkinsville’s very own Toyota Boshoku America Inc. understands the importance of workplace safety, as well as cutting-edge digital technology. They announced the company’s first “Smart Plant” to be located in Hopkinsville, Kentucky in March of 2023. This Smart Plant will employ innovative, cutting-edge technologies such as advanced robotics, planning and automation to streamline processes, reduce waste and enhance productivity to maximize efficiency and operations. This operation will serve as a model for others in the industry to follow.

2. Robotics and AI

Robotics and AI continue to innovate the world as we know it. The use of modern robotics is safer to use than a human in some situations (Universal Robots). Giving risky activities to robotics allow employees to focus on more complex tasks that need human touch. Robots can work separately from humans and other machines, leaving opportunity for collaborative work. Education in robotics is growing rapidly as well as programs in post-secondary education. At Gateway Academy and Hopkinsville Community College, there are opportunities for students to work with robotics. Gateway Academy has an award-winning robotics team and Hopkinsville Community College (HCC) has a program called HOPFAME Industrial Maintenance Technology. HOPFAME allows students to graduate with 18 months of work experience, extensive knowledge in electricity, fluid power, mechanics, fabrication, and robotics. Many companies have become partners with HCC to create world-class technicians for the workforce of tomorrow, right here in South Western Kentucky. The ability for the classwork to adapt to the real-world application and needs of our manufacturers in Hopkinsville and surrounding counties mean manufacturers located here stay ahead of the curve when it comes to technological advancements.

3. Green Energy

Green Energy is a conscious effort to add renewable energy practices into operations and is another benefit for workplace safety. Renewable energy solutions such as solar power, battery storage and LED lighting can contribute to sustainability. According to IRENA, “Renewables could grow to around 27% of total final energy consumption for global manufacturing by 2030.” Taking advantage of renewable energy sources allows companies to instead scale operations sustainably. Through a partnership with the Tennessee Valley Authority, the South Western Kentucky Economic Development Council is recognizing industries for their commitment to sustainability as part of the TVA Go Green Sustainability Awards process. Christian County has achieved gold level sustainability status and Trigg County has received silver level status while working with local leaders and industries to highlight and celebrate their sustainability efforts. You can learn more about our Go Green recognition program here.

We can’t let safety month go by without recognizing an incredible accomplishment by Riken Americas. Riken Americas is in Hopkinsville, Kentucky and is a custom compounder of flexible and rigid PVC along with TPE for a variety of industries. They have over 1.1 million hours without a lost time accident! They will be receiving an award in July for this achievement.

Being a part of a community who prioritizes workforce readiness is encouraging and highly beneficial to business owners. Our workforce is not only already implementing these efforts, but we are also ready to take on new advancements. The South Western Kentucky community along with local technical colleges and university campuses see the need to provide programs and guidance early on. Post-secondary education stays up to date with new technologies to ensure when they send graduates into their careers that they are prepared and ready to jump right in. In a world where technology is always changing, it’s important to know the priorities of your business and focus on how to make it better for your employees. Education is adapting, and it’s important for businesses to do the same.