LONDON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Independent research firm Verdantix has released its sixth annual EHS global survey of 411 decision-makers across 25 industries and 35 countries. The headline finding is that 60% of respondents perceive innovation as a high priority for the EHS function and a further 23% believe it is essential. This is a remarkable focus on innovation compared to the historic link between EHS and compliance.
“This survey unarguably illustrates a sea change in the attitude of EHS managers towards the mission of the EHS function,” commented Steve Bolton, Verdantix Research Director. “Gone are the days when cost effective compliance topped the priority list. This benchmark of EHS plans for 2019 demonstrates the EHS community is doubling down on innovation and technology.”
The Verdantix report, “Global EHS Leaders Survey 2018: Budgets, Priorities & Tech Preferences” provides EHS leaders and their suppliers with unique and comprehensive data to benchmark 2019 plans. Key findings:
EHS digital transformation: 52% of respondents have implemented a plan and 33% are working on a digital transformation strategy for EHS.
Technology adoption: 58% plan wide usage of EHS software in 2019, 44% digital sensors, 43% location tracking wearables and 40% telematics for vehicle safety.
Training: 55% of EHS leaders anticipate broad use of learning management systems and online health and safety training courses which is more than classroom training.
Budgets: worldwide spending on EHS will increase by 4% in 2019 compared to 2018. Bright spots for double-digit budget increases are digital technologies, PPE and training.
EHS consulting spend: 2019 priorities are EHS software implementation, EHS management systems design, process safety improvement and advice for capital projects.
Cloud-based EHS software: 68% of EHS managers consider private cloud deployment is acceptable and 30% consider multi-tenant deployment is acceptable.
“This global survey provides a benchmark for EHS leaders aiming to boost their safety metrics, run efficient compliance processes and overhaul worker health stats,” continued Bolton. “There is widespread recognition that digital technologies like software, analytics, wearables, sensors and mobile apps are central to the new EHS mission statement.”
To learn more register for the Verdantix webinar: “2019 Benchmark For EHS Budgets, Priorities & Technology Preferences” and attend the HSE Innovation Summit Europe taking place March 26-27.