Amazon is now testing a wearable gadget that notifies fulfillment center employees when they violate rules on social distancing, CNBC recently reported.
To describe the device, it is with a clear sleeve from plastic materials with a clip that features its audio system and LED light. The Amazon memo indicated with the reporters.
This is being done in light of the continuous efforts to minimize infections due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Right now, there are almost eight million infections worldwide, with around 435,000 recoveries. But the cases are still rising in most parts of the world.
Details of the wearable
Amazon wants to improve social distancing among its workers. Each employee must wear the device which is accessible from various parts of the stations in the facility as they receive instructions on how to use it.
The device will emit a loud sound, and its light will flash when the workers get very close to each other. The company's facility in Washington's Kent has begun deploying the wearable on Wednesday, according to the private group among the employees.
At the end of the day, they can return the device, and they can also share feedback about the wearable by scanning QR codes on flyers in the facility. These employees do not have to utilize the device if they choose not to.
The company memo added how Amazon hopes to have this technology help employees achieve safer working environments, in the middle of the global pandemic.
Small-scale testing
A spokesperson from the company likewise confirmed they have started with small-scale testing of the device in one of the warehouses. They added that the feedback from their employees will be utilized to test the device further.
Amazon said, "We're excited to test this technology with you and get your feedback to understand if it's an effective tool to keep you safe. Additionally, if we are ever notified of a COVID-19 diagnosis, the data captured from the devices of associates who had close contact can be used to conduct contact tracing."
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They are also experimenting on adding more safety measures with regards to enforcing social distancing in their warehouses. On June 16, they announced the launch of "Distance Assistants" in various U.S. facilities wherein there will be a camera and computing device to alert users when they need to maintain proper distancing.
They also added markings on the floor, especially in those where there is high traffic to advise workers to maintain these safe distances. They are heavily relying on technology to detect which areas need more reminders for social distancing.
However, in a previous report on Tech Times, Amazon warehouse employees are still critical of these measures because of the lack of health benefits and protection they receive from the company, in light of the coronavirus. These include providing protective equipment, temperature monitoring, and more tools more efficiently.