Army aims to combat heat risk with wearable monitor prototype

A wearable heat risk monitor prototype for the Australian Defence Force is being trialled by Army personnel in the Northern Territory this month, with the prototype developed by GME — a manufacturer of radio frequency communication technology products.

With heat risk — a significant issue for workplace safety and force preservation — currently being mitigated with activity cycles informed by specialised thermal monitoring equipment, the Army engaged GME to develop wearable environmental monitoring technology that is capable of continuous, real-time personal heat stress monitoring without manual input.

Image: Supplied

Combining environmental sensors and real-time data analytics, the portable device provides local commanders and soldiers with live insights that facilitate timely action to minimise heat risk. The Wearable Heat Stress Monitor works by continuous environment monitoring and tracking workforce activity patterns to flag potential heat-related incidents.

“Trialling innovative solutions like this allows us to better manage heat-related risks and maintain operational readiness wherever we are working, including tropical areas such as the Northern Territory,” Head of Army Safety Colonel Brendan Robinson said.

Image: Supplied

The field trial will assess the prototype’s performance, including wearability and ease of use for soldiers. A final product for the Army and the wider community will be informed by the results of the trial.

Top image: iStock.com/ImagesbyTrista. Stock image used is for illustrative purposes only.