Delivering worker safety
A solar-powered smart helmet has been launched to help keep delivery riders safer on their bikes. As well as the dangers of traffic, the cyclists also have to navigate the challenge of responding to new orders and incoming information while they’re on the road. This can distract them from what’s happening around them and also affect their control of the bike while they check the order details on their smartphone.
Swedish tech company Exeger and electronics manufacturer Cosonic have created the protective headgear to support some of the 15 million delivery riders working in China. It includes a rear LED tail light to help improve visibility, and audio speakers and microphone for hands-free communication. The equipment is powered by a flexible solar cell which can convert both indoor and outdoor light into energy.
Stephane Hareau, Senior Director, Global Partnership, at Exeger, said: “There is growing market need for helmets with smart integrations to enable safer, hands-free communication and visibility while on the road.”
The risks faced by delivery cyclists and how to mitigate them is one of the topics that will be discussed in this year’s Broadbent Lecture at Ergonomics & Human Factors 2025. Nicola Christie, Professor of Transport Safety at University College London, will deliver a keynote about ‘Managing occupational road risk: are we there yet?’.