#United States #Denver #MākuSafe #MSD Challenge #Safety Innovation

MākuSafe Clinches Top Spot at 2025 MSD Solutions Lab Safety Innovation Challenge

In a significant achievement for workplace safety technology, MākuSafe has been recognized as the winner of the 2025 MSD Solutions Lab Safety Innovation Challenge. This annual event, held during the NSC Safety Congress & Expo in Denver, featured ten pioneering technologies aimed at preventing musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), which are the leading cause of workplace injuries. The National Safety Council (NSC) organized the event, emphasizing the critical role of technology in preemptively addressing workplace injuries.

The Event Highlights

The 2025 MSD Solutions Lab Safety Innovation Challenge stood out for its focus on scalable solutions designed to combat MSDs caused by repetitive tasks, awkward body postures, and overexertion.

Katherine Mendoza, the senior director of workplace safety programs at NSC, expressed, "MSDs are preventable injuries that require our immediate attention. This challenge aims to unveil innovative and effective strategies that can be adopted by organizations of all sizes to safeguard their workforce. We extend our congratulations to MākuSafe and all the semifinalists for their innovative contributions."

The Safety Innovation Challenge originated from the NSC MSD Solutions Lab, which commenced in 2021 with backing from Amazon (NASDAQ: AMZN). The lab's mission is to spotlight technologies that effectively tackle the risks leading to MSDs. Following a comprehensive evaluation phase conducted by NSC and TechConnect, a division of Advanced Technology International, the top 10 semifinalists were selected to showcase their solutions to over 5,000 safety professionals and business leaders attending the expo.

Innovative Semifinalist Technologies

The impressive lineup of semifinalists included numerous advanced technologies such as:

• - CerebrumEdge: An AI-powered computer vision platform that utilizes cameras to monitor worker posture and detect early signs of MSD risks while providing actionable prevention insights.
• - SpatialCortex: A wearables-focused system that employs biomechanical risk analysis and task-specific 3D training to evaluate and enhance manual handling assessments.
• - KU Leuven: Developers of a digital twin technology that replicates workplaces and worker movements, enabling proactive analysis of posture and potential risk factors.
• - PRECURE: A smart wearable that tracks muscle activity and movement patterns to inform users about exertion levels and help prevent injuries.
• - Amp Health: An AI-enabled platform focused on assessing worker mobility, documenting incidents, and delivering tailored prevention strategies through visual data analysis.
• - MākuSafe: This standout feature wears devices that detect strain and ergonomic risks while analyzing safety data to foster a culture of productivity and safety among workers.
• - Additional notable semifinalists included SentiMetrix, MOOVENCY, SafetyVue, and VinciVR, Inc., showcasing a variety of innovative approaches for addressing workplace safety.

The Winning Technology

Tom West, Vice President and Global Practice Leader at MākuSafe, expressed his pride in the recognition, stating, "We are thrilled to be highlighted among our peers by the National Safety Council. MSDs represent some of the industry’s most preventable injuries. Our technology is designed to help organizations recognize risks earlier, take appropriate measures, and ensure the safety and health of their workforce while achieving productivity enhancements."

During the closing keynote session, the final three contenders—MākuSafe, Amp Health, and CerebrumEdge—presented their technologies to a panel of expert judges and conference attendees. Through audience participation, MākuSafe emerged victorious, securing a one-year subscription to the NSC TechHub Marketplace. This awards platform connects innovative technology providers with employers committed to advancing workplace safety solutions. Furthermore, all semifinalists will have the opportunity to engage with the MSD Solutions Lab Pilot Grant Program, facilitating real-world implementations with leading U.S. employers.

Sarah Rhoads, Vice President of Global Workplace Health and Safety at Amazon, commented, "Innovation and safety go hand in hand. We commend all participants for their commitment and innovation in making workplaces safer."

This year’s challenge has underscored the need for proactive measures to prevent MSDs, firmly positioning technology at the forefront of workplace safety initiatives. To discover more about the MSD Solutions Lab Safety Challenge and ongoing initiatives aimed at reducing MSDs, visit nsc.org/msd.