Safety Apps & Digital Tools
Your phone can be a useful safety tool: checking the heat index, measuring noise, setting up a ladder, finding a Safety Data Sheet, or calling for help when you work alone. It can also be a dangerous distraction. Use the right apps at the right time.
- Workers
- Supervisors
Free government apps
| App | What it does |
|---|---|
| OSHA-NIOSH Heat Safety Tool | Shows the heat index at your location, risk level and precautions. See Heat Illness |
| NIOSH Sound Level Meter | Measures noise levels (iPhone). See Noise |
| NIOSH Ladder Safety | Helps set extension ladders at the right angle. See Extension Ladders |
| NIOSH Pocket Guide | Quick facts on chemical hazards and exposure limits |
| FEMA app and Wireless Emergency Alerts | Weather and emergency alerts. See Severe Weather |
Common workplace tools
- SDS apps or online libraries: quick access to Safety Data Sheets. Paper or electronic SDSs must be readily available to workers on every shift. See Safety Data Sheets.
- Inspection and observation apps: digital checklists with photos and corrective action tracking.
- Lone worker apps: check-in timers and panic buttons. See Working Alone.
- Weather and lightning alert apps for outdoor work.
- Translation apps to help with communication, never as a replacement for proper training. See Multilingual Crews.
Use your phone safely
- Don’t use a phone while operating equipment, driving, climbing or walking in traffic areas. See Cell Phone Distractions.
- Don’t rely on a phone app as your only gas detector, fall protection calculation or emergency plan.
- Don’t post jobsite photos without permission. See Posting Jobsite Photos.
Privacy
Company apps may track location or activity. Ask what’s collected and how it’s used, and keep personal accounts separate from work devices when you can. See Smartphone Security.
Standards & references
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