In this episode of the All Things Safety Podcast, I talk to Mark Harris, CEO of HeroWear, to dismantle the myths surrounding exoskeletons and discuss their practical application in today’s workforce. Far from the bulky, motorized suits seen in Hollywood, modern "exosuits" are lightweight, breathable, and designed to function as "artificial back muscles."

Harris explains that the primary goal of these suits is not to give workers "super strength," but to increase endurance and reduce the physical "micro-damage" accumulated during repetitive lifting tasks. By offloading 30 to 40 percent of the strain on the lower back, these devices are significantly reducing workplace injuries and fatigue. The conversation highlights a shift in safety culture: for the first time, workers are actually eager to wear their protective gear because it makes their jobs easier and their bodies feel better at the end of the shift.

The exosuit “does not make you stronger. It acts to increase your endurance... our aim is to reduce that total amount of micro damage over time so when [workers] go home and rest at the end of the day, they can come back at 100% the next day,” Harris said.

HeroWear has taken part in a recent study where of over 300,000 hours worked, they saw a 67 percent reduction in strains and sprains.

“An exosuit is $1,000 to $1,500. A back injury is about $67k, according to OSHA,” Harris said.

"I can't name another piece of safety technology workers are clamoring for. Hard hats, steel-toed boots, fall protection... it's always a fight to introduce new safety gear. Exosuit technology makes workers feel better at the end of the day."