New UK lab will connect industry with emerging tech developers to boost worker safety

A NEW initiative has been launched to accelerate the adoption of emerging technologies that could help prevent work-related deaths.

The OSHX Lab, established through a company created by Lloyd’s Register in collaboration with Heathrow Airport, will connect technology startups with industry and regulators to help test, pilot and deploy novel technologies that could help save lives.

The International Lab Organization estimates that 200,000 people a year die from work-related injuries in hazardous sectors including mining, construction, and manufacturing. In the UK, 138 workers were killed in 2023/24 with around 70% caused by falls from height or being struck by a vehicle or moving object.

OSHX is calling for companies and industry leaders to join the programme. It says the lab will work with industry to understand the safety challenges they face and then identify emerging technologies that could help solve them.

Seb Corby, principal consultant for the organisation overseeing OSHX, said: “OSHX will cover all emerging technologies – from industrial internet of things and AI to digital platforms and even onsite hardware like smart hearing aids. There are no limitations on the type of technology. The focus is on effective implementation.”

OSHX says successful implementation of new technologies will also enhance productivity and operational resilience.

Helen Balmforth, head of the Centre for Data and Analytics at the UK’s Health and Safety Executive (HSE), which is a partner on the project, said: “By providing regulatory insight and facilitating the safe adoption of emerging technologies, we aim to ensure that innovation supports compliance and delivers tangible improvements in worker protection. This initiative reflects our commitment to enable industry to improve health and safety outcomes using innovative data and analytical techniques.”