Twiceme CEO Joins ISEA Executive Summit Panel to Discuss Connected Safety

Last week at the ISEA Executive Summit, our CEO, Christian Connolly, had the opportunity to join a dynamic panel discussion in Washington, D.C. alongside connected safety company Aatmunn and Wesco, a leading global supply chain solutions provider. The topic, “Navigating the Promise and Perils of Connected Safety,” struck a chord with attendees looking to understand how digital transformation reshapes worker safety and business models.

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Here are some key takeaways from our 90-minute session:

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What is a “Connected Worker”—and Why Does It Matter?

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The connected worker isn’t just a concept; they’re already reshaping job sites through wearables, sensors, software, and integrated data platforms. These technologies move us from reactive safety to proactive solutions, from fall protection sensors to NFC and RFID chips for equipment and biometric fatigue monitoring.

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These tools represent more than safety for many companies—they’re a step into broader digital transformation. The connected worker is often the starting point for digitizing operations.

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Solving End-User Pain Points

End users and safety managers face various safety and compliance challenges, including manual documentation, missed inspections, and training gaps. Connected solutions are streamlining these workflows, providing real-time insights, and helping reduce injuries and insurance costs.

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Manufacturers are gaining visibility into how often and where their equipment is used in the field. This isn’t about surveillance, it’s about ensuring equipment is worn, gear is functioning, and teams are protected.

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The Manufacturer’s Trade-Off: Risk vs. Reward

Connected safety presents a compelling shift for original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), and with this comes stronger customer stickiness and data-driven feedback. But it’s not without risk. Many companies still face low digital maturity, high R&D costs, and internal skill gaps. 

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Data is Only Valuable When it’s Actionable

Turning raw information into actionable insights requires context, trust, and well-designed tools. Whether you're a safety manager or a C-suite exec, your data must be translated into relevant dashboards, alerts, and decision frameworks.

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Tangible Benefits Are Emerging

The panelists explored several examples, from heat stress monitoring to lone worker solutions, that are already showing returns. In many cases, these investments reduce injury rates, compliance risk, and insurance costs. Companies embracing connected PPE aren’t waiting for mandates; they’re taking the initiative to invest in their people and future-proof their operations.

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Adoption Barriers Are Real, but Surmountable

Adoption challenges persist. Organizations grapple with cultural resistance and privacy concerns. OEMs struggle with investment costs, monetization models, and a lack of digital talent. A recurring theme was the importance of open, interoperable platforms—no single vendor can solve this alone.

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Parting Advice for Leaders

We left PPE manufacturers with one piece of advice: align early across your R&D, product, sales, and marketing teams and stay laser-focused on solving real customer problems, not just launching cool tech. The connected safety ecosystem is complex and fast-moving, but full of promise and real value in the form of more efficient and safer job sites. Those who prioritize trust, interoperability, and impact will be the ones to lead the way.

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