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HEALTH & SAFETY


The case for asIcs To ensure worker safeTy


Industry 4.0 technologies have transformed processes across the manufacturing value chain for the better but ensuring worker safety in an increasingly more complex environment has taken on a different form, with new considerations. here, richard Mount, director of sales at asIc design and supply company swindon silicon systems, explains how smart sensors and asIc technology can ensure occupational safety in industry.


A 20 ocToBer/noVeMBer 2022 | IndusTrIal coMplIance


n application specific integrated circuit, or ASIC, is a custom integrated circuit (IC) that is designed specifically for the customer’s requirements. While the same functions


can often be performed by combining several off-the-shelf ICs, an ASIC is favoured thanks to its unique ability to meet superior levels of performance, reliability, form factor, long term availability and intellectual property protection. By turning towards automation to


complete many repetitive activities, Industry 4.0 processes drastically reduce opportunity for human error - frequently cited as a major cause of occupational incidents. Smart sensors are an essential piece of the Industry 4.0 technology stack, gathering data for further analysis to gain actionable insights for range of industrial safety use cases.


EnvironmEntal monitoring


Industrial settings can be harsh and potentially dangerous environments. Sensors are the first point of call to ensure the accurate monitoring of the industrial environment - whether that is detecting temperature changes, presence of hazardous gas, fluid leaks, or measuring air quality. If a measurement is recorded that falls outside of defined safety parameters, a smart sensor connected to the factory’s network can trigger alerts to prevent further issues arising. While these sensors are often found on


equipment or within the factory building itself, more recently they have been integrated into personal protective equipment (PPE). As a longstanding essential for factory floor personnel, making PPE smarter with added sensors and


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