PPE: People, Protection, Environment: Designing the next generation of intelligent, interconnected safety systems

10 Feb 2026
Theatre 1
AI Data and Adoption , The New Risks , The Future Profession
In this session, we’ll explore how the next generation of Personal Protective Equipment will evolve from passive gear to active, intelligent systems. Advances in digital manufacturing, wearable technology, and data analytics are opening the door to PPE that measures fit, comfort, and performance in real time, enabling continuous improvement in design and provision. We’ll discuss how these technologies can integrate seamlessly with smart workplaces, linking people, products, and environments in new ways that enhance safety, sustainability, and wellbeing. The session will also consider how data-driven insights can support organisations in moving from reactive protection to proactive prevention, creating systems that work with people, not just for them. 
Speakers
Dr. Debbie Janson
Dr. Debbie Janson, Associate Professor - Department of Mechanical Engineering at The University of Bath