A manufacturer in France is facing a backlash for plans to introduce wearable social-distancing “alarms” for workers.
The devices, according to the Guardian, “beep, vibrate, flash or emit an alarm of up to 83 decibels” when wearers get too close to one another.
Essity, a producer of soap, tissues and sanitary products, said the alarms are being tested among 2,800 workers in Gien, France.
The company says they are automatically disabled in lavatories and medical areas, and are not able to identify or track specific staff members.
Union representatives say the devices “infantilize” workers.
One went so far as to compare them to shock collars that help prevent dogs from barking.
