In the last decade, we’ve seen promising improvements in safety performance, largely thanks to the adoption of EHS technology. Total Recordable Incident Rates (TRIR) are down, which is encouraging. But, there’s a but. Fatal incidents actually rose from 2011 to 2021.

This tells us there’s more work to do. Traditional safety practices like data collection and audits are key for compliance, but they don’t go far enough in preventing serious incidents. These often stem from deeper issues like procedural errors and gaps in competency and safety culture.

Manual EHS processes just aren’t up to the task of tackling these root causes effectively. As we saw in our recent webinar with independent research firm, Verdantix, it’s up to digital Control of Work (CoW) tools to step up and address these challenges.

Where’s it going wrong?

Companies are keen on gathering as much data as possible—counting observations, tracking near misses. However, there’s often a gap. The data frequently remains siloed within the EHS department.

The crucial link—transferring insights back to frontline workers—is missing. EHSQ professionals may feel they receive excellent feedback, but frontline workers feel like they feed data into a corporate black hole, never seeing the practical insights that could help them.

Firms invest in the technology to collect and manage the data but rely on old-hat ways to get the insights back to frontline works—relying on safety meetings, paper forms, and emails.

The key questions they pose are:

• How do we integrate risk and safety management into the daily routines of workers?
• How do we make critical safety information more accessible, consumable, and impactful for them?

This is where digital Control of Work (CoW) software comes into play.

Making the case for digital control of work tools

From humble beginnings as a digital permit-to-work solution, CoW software has evolved into a powerful tool. It now gathers data from multiple sources, integrating risk management directly into daily operations. This makes it easier for teams on-site to access and use safety information. Here’s how CoW software is changing the way we work:

#1. Data at your fingertips

With digital CoW tools, all essential safety information is in one place and easy for frontline workers to access. Safety data sheets, risk assessments, and details on simultaneous operations are all at their fingertips, enabling them to make quick, informed decisions.

#2. Simplify workflows

CoW tools streamline safety processes, eliminating outdated paper-based systems and manual data entry. With intuitive mobile interfaces, workers can easily input and access data on the move, minimizing downtime and boosting productivity. This saves time and helps keep their focus on maintaining a safe work environment.

#3. See risks clearly

CoW tools are great at clearly showing both risks and correct safety steps. They gather all the necessary information in one easy-to-access place, helping workers make smart, safe decisions when it counts. This is particularly helpful with Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) for those who may not be familiar with certain equipment—or for highlighting potential conflicts from simultaneous operations (SIMOPs), making workers more aware of surrounding activities and helping them plan their tasks in a safer, more informed way.

What does integrated CoW look like on the ground?

By using digital CoW tools, you can seamlessly embed safety processes within the organization, ensuring that every step from permit issuance to shift management is interconnected and efficient.

For instance, you can instantly verify contractor qualifications as you initiate a permit, ensuring everyone involved is competent and prepared. Whilst shift management tools keep you informed about ongoing activities, helping you identify overlapping hazardous tasks and adjust your operations accordingly.

Easy access to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and microlearning resources ensures that everyone, especially contractors new to the site, is up to speed and familiar with all necessary safety measures and equipment.

The beauty of a unified digital CoW system lies in its ability to keep all relevant information accessible within one app—there’s no need to navigate away from the task at hand, allowing workers to remain laser-focused on safety.

Get the inside scoop!

Want to dive deeper into how this integration can improve your safety processes? Watch our recent on-demand webinar featuring independent research firm, Verdantix. You’ll get a closer look at the TenForce approach, explore real-life use cases, and receive practical tips on choosing the right software vendor and guaranteeing a smooth implementation.