Wearable Tech for Women, Lone Workers and Tesco

James Stables, senior editor of Wareable, “the expert in wearable technology”, spoke to IFSEC Global about some of the exciting tech emerging from this nascent market.

 IFSEC Global: In what ways could wearable tech change the surveillance industry (ie, worn cameras as an alternative to fixed CCTV)?

James Stables, Wareable: Wearable cameras have the benefit of increasing personal security, and this issue has been thrust into the limelight in the US, which is equipping cops with cameras to try and prevent a repeat of Ferguson.

Wearable cameras help increase the security of the wearer, and generate better evidence and, most importantly, help hold police and security to account.

Are you aware of any devices that could make the job of lone workers (eg, security guards) easier and how?

JS: Wearable cameras such as the Taser AXON Body (inset) are capable of helping add that extra element of personal security, and the latest smartwatches boast GPS, which can aid those looking to support security workers, and get them help faster.

To what extent do you think consumers are embracing and adopting the new tech faster than businesses?

JS: Wearable tech has certainly been a consumer trend so far, but already Tesco is using wearables to boost the efficiency of workers in its warehouses.

Studies have shown that workers can be 8.5% more efficient when using wearable tech, and with those kinds of benefits, it won’t take the business world long to catch up.

In what ways can wearables help ordinary citizens improve their own security?

JS: Personal security wearables are a burgeoning subcategory, especially for women. Products like Cuff and the First Sign hair clip (top image) both turn simple accessories into GPS enabled alarm systems, which can send a message for help.

It’s a sad reality that these wearables have to exist, but they’re gaining popularity.