A recent report from Nokia highlights significant improvements in worker safety among enterprises that have implemented private wireless networks.
The 2024 Industrial Digitalization Report, based on a survey conducted by GlobalData, shows that 65% of respondents experienced over a 10% improvement in worker safety.
Tactics included implementing geofencing technology, connected workers and the use of robotics to carry out dangerous work, it said.
The survey, involving early adopters of private wireless networks in the manufacturing, transportation, and energy sectors across countries like Australia, France, Japan, the UK, and the US, reveals a growing trend in the deployment and expansion of these networks.
Notably, 100% of the 100 enterprises surveyed have expanded their use of private wireless networks to additional locations or use cases since their initial deployment.
What is a private wireless network?
Private wireless networks, unlike public networks, are dedicated to specific organizations, providing secure, reliable, and high-performance connectivity.
These networks support various industrial applications, including automation, robotics, and IoT devices, ensuring seamless communication and data transfer within enterprises.
Rapid ROI and sustainability gains
The report indicates that enterprises are not only enhancing safety but also achieving rapid returns on investment (ROI). An impressive 78% of respondents reported positive ROI within six months of deploying private wireless solutions, with 23% seeing returns in just one month.
The technology has enabled businesses to streamline processes and reduce operational costs effectively, Nokia said in a press release.
Additionally, 79% of organizations noted a significant reduction in emissions, highlighting the role of private wireless networks in sustainability efforts. Enhanced connectivity has allowed for better monitoring and tracking of carbon emissions through industrial IoT devices and sensors, contributing to more efficient and environmentally friendly operations.
Edge technology integration
The adoption of edge technology, which processes data closer to where it is generated rather than in centralized data centers, is also on the rise among enterprises using private wireless networks.
According to the report, 39% of these enterprises have implemented on-premise edge technology, with an additional 52% planning to do so. This integration supports advanced use cases like AI and video analytics, further driving digital transformation and operational efficiency.
Real-world applications
Lufthansa Technik’s experience exemplifies the practical benefits of private wireless networks. Dr. Claudius Noak, IT Consultant at Lufthansa Industry Solutions, described how the deployment improved connectivity for virtual table inspections of aircraft components, enabling remote maintenance with high-quality video uploads from multiple cameras.
The company has since expanded its use of the network, connecting over 50 devices with plans to support over 1,000 in the future.
Industry insights
Gary Barton, Research Director at GlobalData, emphasized the clear benefits of private wireless technology for connectivity and ROI. “These technologies will help enterprises prepare for future challenges as they continue to drive industrial transformation,” he said.
David de Lancellotti, Vice President of Enterprise Campus Edge Business at Nokia, highlighted the comprehensive advantages of combining private wireless with industrial edge technology.
“We help our customers improve worker safety, productivity, and reduce emissions while reducing operational costs by bundling private wireless and Wi-Fi connectivity, applications, and devices in one central on-premise edge platform,” he stated.