While social distancing rules have almost become part of the norm, due to the COVID-19 outbreak, some frontline industries and workers cannot avoid being in close proximity with their co-workers, patients or even just the general public. Health workers are still expected to see patients, carry out routine health checks and care for the unwell. Supermarket workers are still working to keep our shelves stocked. And police and security services are still carrying out public duties. All of these requiring close contact. Despite following cleaning advise for their technology devices, this doesn’t take away the human contact aspect. As you may have seen, these frontline workers are slowly introducing different technology devices and measures to take, to avoid, as much as possible, the human contact between people. Below are a few of the main things that you may expect to start seeing:

5G

5G is much faster and can carry larger amounts of data, whilst connecting to more devices. This enables people to track real time data either on products or people, bringing technology advances to the track and trace capabilities that may be essential.

‘Robots’ & Intelligent Automation Solutions

You may have heard of the Zebra SmartSight already in previous articles, this kind of technology innovation may be seen around a lot sooner than anticipated. Situations where, rather than the worker having to walk around the supermarket aisles touching things or coming in close contact with other people, the smart robotic solution can do this for them, effectively and efficiently counting the stock by simply scanning the barcode. Still getting the job done, as well as adhering to the social distancing guidelines. These smart robots can be used it all kinds of environments, including delivering essential goods to those in need. Or even in the healthcare industries, monitoring patients, or transporting samples to different departments or laboratories.

IOT

The internet of things is a technology that, in simple terms, allows things to ‘talk’ to each other through the internet connection. This kind of technology can be used to remotely take patients temperature, which will report this data back to the healthcare worker. They can be set up to ensure distance is kept between people in the retail or warehousing industries, with devices in place to guide people on where to stand.

Artificial Intelligence

Doctors and nurses are now conducting diagnostics over the phone or online. Introducing AI and predictive analytic technologies into this process, however, can increase efficiencies and ensure the correct advice and guidance is given to the patient. This would also depend on the severity of the case and should only be used as an initial screening of the patient.

Barcode Scanners

Particularly the Zebra extended range scanners allow scanning from a distance, ensuring maintained social distancing whilst obtaining the data needed such as ID cards.

Kiosks

Zebra Kiosks are another step to avoid contact with people, within all types of industries, however it is very important that cleaning guidelines are followed.

Please contact us, if you require further information on how these technology advances can improve your business operations.