Innovation in personal protective equipment to reduce occupational Hazard in Latin American mining

Abstract

This article analyzes the new technological trends in personal protective equipment (PPE) used in the Latin America mining industry, where, due to the sector’s hazardous characteristics, it is necessary to adopt new protective measures for worker safety. The study focused on a literature review from 2018 to 2025, using a documentary-descriptive design. More than 30 sources were analyzed, including official reports from the International Labour Organization (ILO), specialized journals on occupational safety in mining, statistical reports from various national mining chambers, mining company reports, patents, and case studies to understand advancements in the evolution of smart personal protective equipment. As a result of the study, it was identified that innovation in smart personal protective equipment focuses on the development of new materials that improve comfort and usability, but mainly, on the integration of electronic systems into traditional equipment. These devices now not only provide protection but also monitor in real time the worker’s exposure to Hazard and even their physical condition. This innovation requires digital platforms for data analysis to ensure effective operation, making the implementation of the Internet of Things within Industry 4.0 indispensable. Although today it remains a solution with high initial costs- thus representing a limitation- it is expected that overtime implementation costs will decrease.