Source: LocilabsTwo U.K. tech companies have jointly developed a device that will enable those in the transportation industry to maintain social distancing guidelines, issued in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, while continuing to build, repair and maintain critical transportation infrastructure such as roadways.

The device, dubbed SafeSpace, was developed by U.K. companies DKN Capital and LociLabs and it reportedly ensures that those who are constructing, repairing and maintaining roadways amid a host of distractions such as traffic and loud equipment, can maintain appropriate distances from those working around them.

The SafeSpace, which comes in both a badge and watch version, will issue real-time audible, visual and vibrating alerts if it detects another SafeSpace device within 6.5 ft of the device — that is slightly more than the recommended social distancing guideline of 6 ft.

The spatial awareness device protects employees for 12 hours on a single charge and can be discretely worn on the wrist or attached to a belt.

Although originally developed for those working in transportation construction applications, its developers believe that the SafeSpace would be appropriate for workplaces in virtually any industry amid the COVID-19 pandemic.