Frequently Asked Questions | Connected Safety

Get answers to common questions on:

Functionality

How does 3M Safety Inspection Manager (SIM) work?
SIM is a cloud and mobile based system that works in combination with certain PPE, Safety Equipment, and Areas with unique identification in the form of RFID tags and barcodes.
Can I receive notifications from the system?
Yes, a notifications feature is built into the SIM system. It is user configurable and is based on a subscription model where a user can subscribe to only the notifications of interest.
Can SIM communicate with other HR or safety software systems?
Currently the SIM software system is standalone and only supports minimal integration with other safety software systems via an API. Future releases of the software will look to improve this support. Please contact your SIM support representative if you have specific needs.
Can I use barcodes and manual IDs with SIM?
Yes, the SIM will work equipment identification via barcodes (most industry standard) and manual IDs (alpha-numeric). However, 3M recommends the use of RFID for safety critical equipment. Barcodes and manual IDs (such as serial numbers) operate as ‘read only’ systems and the responsibility lies with the user to make sure they always sync their mobile device prior to interacting with the equipment and immediately following the transaction to prevent conflicts.
What are the options for RFID tagging of equipment?
IAM system is designed and scoped for certain reusable PPE and other safety equipment.
Where do I put the RFID tag?
Locations have been identified for select 3M PPE and are described in the tagging kit user instructions. For use with other PPE or safety equipment, 3M as well as non-3M, consult with 3M Technical Services. At no point should an RFID tag be placed in a manner that could lead to compromise of the safety function of the PPE.
Can I put the RFID tag on non-3M safety equipment?
Yes, but it is not specified or tested for non-3M PPE. It is necessary to consult with 3M Technical Services and the non-3M equipment manufacturer to help you determine an appropriate location for the tag on non-3M PPE.
Has the RFID tag been tested for durability?
Yes, the tag uses a 3M™ VHB™ adhesive to attach tags to PPE and other safety equipment. Both field testing and laboratory testing have been done to validate the durability of the tag attachment.
Does the RFID tag affect NIOSH or other regulatory approvals for safety equipment?
No, for the 3M PPE included in the User Instructions, all locations have been selected to not interfere with the NIOSH approvals. General rules for tagging are: avoid locations that affect functionality of the equipment; do not cover or obscure warning labels, or any other markings such as model numbers; locate the tag in an area that is as flat as possible and accessible to a reader. Consult with the non-3M equipment manufacturer to confirm the regulatory acceptance of RFID tagging.

Data and Security

Who owns my data?
You, the customer, own your data.
Who has access to my data?
Per the terms of the user agreement, 3M has the right to monitor and access the data to improve the SIM and create new features or products. In addition to 3M, any user/employee authorized and permitted by the customer to use the SIM has access to the data. Per user agreement, 3M may also use the data for marketing or selling 3M products to the customer. 3M may de-identify customer data using standard industry practices. Please refer to the user agreement for further details.
Is my data secure?
Although no data system can be 100% foolproof from third-party access (e.g., hackers), the SIM is built with industry standard data management methods and security methods to safeguard the data.

Set Up

What is the basic minimum needed for SIM?
The following three key components are necessary to utilize SIM:
- PPE and Safety Equipment with integrated or retrofitted equipment ID tags (3M-supplied RFID tags)
- Mobile device capable of reading the RFID tags and barcodes along with SIM mobile app
- Web browser and internet connectivity to access data
How can I download SIM app?
SIM mobile app is available for download at the following locations.
- Google© PlayStore for Android (search for 3M Connected Safety – Inspection and Asset Management system)
- Apple® Appstore for iOS (search for 3M Connected Safety – Inspection and Asset Management system)
A user account is necessary to access the mobile and web applications (login information is the same for both applications). In addition, as a security measure, the mobile device will need to be authorized by your company’s SIM System Administrator for use with SIM system.
Is my cell phone or mobile device compatible with SIM?
The following mobile devices have been tested by 3M and found to be compatible with the SIM. Other mobile devices with similar specifications may also work with the SIM.
- Android devices (Unitech® PA720, Samsung® Galaxy S5 – Primary device support)
- iOS devices (iPhone® 6, iPad® Air 2 along with the IDBlue® Reader)
See the 3M™ Inspection & Asset Management Software Specifications for most current guidance (PDF, 162.51 KB).
What kind of web connectivity do I need to access SIM?
A web browser running on a computer connected to the internet is necessary to access the SIM. Google© Chrome (version 48+) and Internet Explorer (version 10+) web browsers have been tested, found to work well with the SIM and are recommended by 3M. Periodic internet access either via Wi-Fi or cellular link for the mobile device to transfer data is also needed.
What can I edit and view within my company’s configuration?
Certain edit features are restricted to a system administrator role (3M recommends limiting system admin role to one or two users). Please refer to Security roles and privileges matrix on the help page.
Can I access SIM instructional manual?
Only registered users of SIM have access to SIM instructional documentation. Upon successful login, please access the documentation via the help page.
Where can I find a full list of specifications?
Yes, you can access both the software specifications (PDF, 162.51 KB) and the hardware specifications (PDF, 308.64 KB) on this site.

Troubleshooting

How do I know if the RFID tag is working?
If a tag is able to be commissioned and registers with a reader, it is working.
What do I do if the RFID tag comes off?
A new RFID tag can be attached to the PPE using the SIM system RFID Tag Kit. The SIM system mobile application supports a feature called ‘Replace a Tag’ where a user can program the new tag with the full and complete history of a lost or removed RFID tag.
What do I do if I can’t get a read off of an RFID tag?
Read position and angle are affected by the type of mobile device and the position of the tag. Try re-positioning the reader closer and more parallel to the RFID tag. Make sure the reader is adequately charged and functioning properly by testing it with an RFID tag that is known to work. Contact 3M Technical Service if the problem continues.
What do I do with the RFID tag if the safety equipment is ready to be discarded?
The IAM system mobile application supports a feature called ‘Decommission’ that writes a permanent status of discard/out-of-service to an RFID tagged item. Discard the safety equipment in accordance with local regulations. The RFID can be disposed with the safety equipment without any special actions.
Will the RFID tag work if it is covered with dirt, grease and grime, or paint?
Yes -- though in most cases, the read range may be decreased somewhat.

Don’t see your question here?

Contact customer support for more information.

CUSTOMER SUPPORT

Learn more about 3M Safety & Inspection Manager

Return to Connected Safety overview