New gadget tracks employee health

A gadget designed to track a person’s day-to-day health is being marketed towards employers, with claims its use could reduce the number of sick days taken by staff.

Electronics manufacturer Phillips has created the DirectLife gadget, which is designed to be worn around the neck similar to a piece of jewellery.

The device records the wearer’s activities and uploads the data to a personal web-page, where users can track their performance against various targets and goals. The device costs $US99, with additional fees required for use of the service.

The gadget is similar in design to the popular FitBit, but is instead targeted at employers instead of end-users. The company says using the DirectLife system could reduce the number of sick days taken and even improve morale and productivity.