Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA), a leader in global aluminium production, and one of the largest companies in the UAE, have announced a trial run for wearable technology desgined to prevent heat-related illness amongst industrial workers during summer
50 volunteers working amongst the hottest parts of the EGA's operations will be monitored using the technology's critical health indicators, including core body temperature; heart rate; and sweating rate. Data from the wearables is transmitted in real time to EGA's occupational health team in order to detect symptoms of heat-related illness earlier.
"We have focused on preventing heat-related illness each summer for many years," said Abdulnasser Bin Kalban, CEO of EGA. "Wearable technology offers the prospect of zero cases every summer, and I am optimistic about this trial," he added. EGA's 'Beat the Heat' programme is a summer-long effort that aims to build knowledge of heat-related illness. In addition to these efforts, EGA employees also have access to other preventative technologies, including hydration tests before and during shifts; cooling showers; cooling booths; drinking stations; icemakers; portable air conditioning units; UV protection; and elecrolyte drinks.
"While heat-related illness is a particular challenge working with industrial processes that generate heat, it is a hazard for people working outside across our country," said the CEO. "I am looking forward to sharing the results of this trial widely and other lessons we have learned to the benefit of everyone contributing to the wellbeing of our society through outdoor work."
