Modernizing Workplace Safety with Visitor & Emergency Management (Webinar)

Navigating the complexities of workplace safety isn't easy. Despite advancements in safety technology, many facilities continue to rely on outdated methods to manage both emergencies and everyday visitor interactions, all while workplaces see a worrying rise in incidents and fatalities. 

Inadequate visitor and emergency management can contribute to several risk factors, such as unauthorized access, safety breaches, and a lack of accountability during emergencies, further complicating efforts to protect employees and visitors. 

The Stark Reality 

• Nonfatal injuries increased by 4.5% in 2022. (source) 
• Fines for OSHA’s Top 10 infractions rose 30% in 2023. (source) 
• Downtime can cost manufacturers up to $260,000 per hour. (source) 

These statistics paint a troubling picture: facilities are sticking to "the way it's always been done," leaving them unprepared for potential crises that loom on the horizon. 

EHS Expert Weighs-In: The Risks of Antiquated Visitor & Emergency Management  

We asked Jason Desler, EHS and Facilities Manager at Ingersoll Rand, to share his experience navigating these challenges in an insightful webinar on Modernizing Safety & Security: Lessons in Advanced Visitor and Emergency Management, in partnership with Manufacturers Alliance. 

Drawing from industry data, personal anecdotes, and Jason’s experience implementing iLobby at Ingersoll Rand, we delved into the challenges that continue to challenge the efficacy of our safety protocols and practices.

Jason Desler discussed critical challenges facing today's facility managers and safety professionals. The session revealed several alarming trends in emergency and visitor management practices and highlighted the urgent need for technological adoption. Below are the key takeaways that every safety professional should consider: 

Pen-and-Paper No Longer Cuts It  

Nearly 50% of facilities continue to rely on pen and paper to manage evacuations. This seemingly innocuous habit is far more dangerous than many realize. Consider the following scenarios:  

• Information Accuracy: Handwritten records are prone to errors and illegibility. In the chaos of an emergency, crucial details about employee locations or special needs could be misread or overlooked.  
• Time Constraints: Manually updating and distributing information takes precious time – a luxury not afforded during a crisis. Every second counts when lives are at stake.  
• Limited Accessibility: Physical documents can be easily lost, damaged, or inaccessible if the emergency prevents re-entry to the building.  
• Lack of Real-time Updates: Unlike digital systems, paper records can't be instantly updated and shared across multiple locations or with first responders.  

Using pen & paper to manage emergencies is indeed like fighting a wildfire with a garden hose—inefficient and dangerously inadequate. The consequences of this outdated approach can be severe, potentially leading to confusion, delays, and even loss of life during critical situations. 

Remote Access is a Critical Gap  

Even more concerning is the fact that over 50% of facilities cannot access their visitor list remotely. This oversight has far-reaching implications:  

• Incomplete Headcounts: Without remote access to visitor information, it's nearly impossible to ensure everyone is accounted for during an evacuation.  
• Delayed Response: Emergency responders may lack crucial information about the number and location of people within the facility, hindering rescue efforts.  
• Communication Breakdowns: The inability to quickly identify and contact visitors can lead to misinformation and panic.  
• Liability Issues: Failure to properly account for all individuals on the premises could result in legal repercussions for the company.  

In today's interconnected world, the ability to access critical information from anywhere should be a standard safety feature, not a luxury.  

Budgetary Constraints are Holding Facilities Back  

Perhaps most troubling is 55% of safety teams have no dedicated budget for Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) technology. This shortsighted approach to safety management is problematic for several reasons:  

• Increased Long-Term Costs: While avoiding upfront investment in EHS technology may seem economical, the potential costs of a poorly managed emergency far outweigh the initial expenses.  
• Missed Opportunities: Modern EHS solutions offer features like real-time tracking, automated alerts, and data analytics that can significantly enhance overall safety protocols.  
• Regulatory Non-Compliance: As safety standards evolve, facilities without proper technological infrastructure may struggle to meet new requirements, risking fines and penalties.  
• Employee Morale and Retention: A perceived lack of investment in safety can negatively impact employee trust and satisfaction, potentially leading to higher turnover rates.  
• Competitive Disadvantage: In an age where workplace safety is increasingly scrutinized, companies that fail to invest in modern safety solutions may find themselves at a disadvantage when attracting clients, partners, and top talent. 

Why You Need to Watch 

1. Grow Your Expertise in Emerging Technology: Stay ahead of the curve by understanding the latest technological advancements in safety management and how they can be applied to enhance your facility's protocols. 
2. Prepare Your Organization for Digital Transformation: Learn practical steps to guide your organization through the digital transformation of safety practices, ensuring a seamless integration of new technologies into your existing systems. 
3. Professional Expertise: Benefit from Jason Desler's extensive experience and acquire actionable strategies to revitalize your safety culture and navigate the complexities of workplace safety with confidence. 

Enhance Facility and Visitor Safety With iLobby 

With its comprehensive suite of tools, iLobby helps manufacturers reduce errors and inconsistencies in visitor & emergency management practices while improving overall safety. 

Find out more by scheduling a demo or learn more about our Visitor Management Solution and Emergency Management Solution.