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Lone worker technology offers solutions that allow people who work on their own to feel connected and safe. But, with so many options out there it can be difficult to know what technology works best for you.<br /><br />A closed solution provider uses an off-the-shelf device that can quickly be integrated into your business but may limit the customization leaders need to address all of your workplace safety risks. An open solution provider uses an app that is downloaded onto portable existing devices.<br /><br />Two-Way Radios<br /><br />In an industry where speed of response is paramount, two-way radios have carved out a unique space as lifelines that connect lone workers to their colleagues. These rugged communication devices are designed for use in harsh conditions and provide clear, reliable communication even in remote areas. Compared to mobile phones, two-way radios can deliver superior range and clarity, and are more durable in terms of their build quality and battery life.<br /><br />In addition to being an integral part of lone worker communications, these robust devices can also be a vital safety tool. Having instant communication across your workforce reduces response times, improves results and allows you to address issues as soon as they arise. Oftentimes, it takes just a few moments for an issue to escalate from a small hiccup into a potentially dangerous situation, so having the capability to quickly communicate with all staff can make all the difference.<br /><br />While you can use any two-way radio to communicate with your team, it is best to select one that has lone worker features built in. These lone worker alerts can include sensor integration that can detect a lack of movement or if the radio is suddenly tilted horizontally, both typical indicators that something is wrong. These features can also send an alarm to monitoring personnel who can then contact the lone worker and request that they contact emergency services.<br /><br />These safety features can be triggered automatically or manually and depending on your system of choice, you can customize the timeframe in which the radio will remain active to prevent false alarms from being triggered. For example, Motorola Solutions MOTOTRBO, Hytera and Entel two-way radios all feature a Man Down prompt which will send an alert to predesignated contacts when the worker fails to respond to a wellness check or missed an SOS signal.<br /><br />The radio will then begin to emit audible and visible beams for other radio users to track down the lone worker. It will also continue to chirp every few seconds until the lone worker signals their status or is rescued.<br /><br />Satellite Devices<br /><br />There are workers who work in remote environments who need the ability to communicate with a monitoring centre. These devices can come in the form of handheld satellite devices, smartphone apps or Bluetooth buttons. They typically offer multiple functions such as panic/emergency activation and alerting, GPS location sharing and periodic well-being check-ins. These types of lone worker technologies enable organizations to keep their workers safe while streamlining management, reducing risk and complying with local workplace health and safety laws.<br /><br />Many of the same benefits of lone worker technology can be applied to indoor settings, as well. Workers in professions such as healthcare, social services and security guards who spend most of their time in buildings or structures that have no cell coverage may find a lone worker device to be very beneficial.<br /><br />Some lone worker devices are designed to operate on the Iridium satellite network which offers 100% global connectivity, making it ideal for lone workers who travel between different locations with differing levels of cellular coverage or who work in underground environments where a GPS signal gets stuck in concrete. The ability to connect via satellite cuts down on the TTFF (Time to First Fix) of an emergency call and ensures that workers can be located quickly no matter where they are in the world.<br /><br />Other lone worker devices are able to use both cellular and satellite connections at the same time, a key feature for workers who need to switch between areas with varying degrees of cellular coverage. For example, a crew that regularly travels between locations with reliable cell coverage and remote settings where coverage is limited will need a solution that can provide consistent connectivity.<br /><br />The order in which an alert is processed by a monitoring center will vary between providers, but most will prioritize locating the device and its user. This means they will look at the initial device location before starting an alarm verification. This can be an invaluable tool in averting false alarms and ensuring that the appropriate emergency response is initiated as quickly as possible.<br /><br />GPS Tracking Devices<br /><br />Many lone workers work in remote environments with limited cellular connectivity. This creates a risk for emergency situations that could require a rapid response from safety personnel. The use of a GPS tracker allows managers and supervisors to know where the worker is at any given time. The device will signal an emergency situation if a worker fails to perform a safety check-in or confirm their wellbeing. Check-ins can be automated using a mobile lone worker app and are often combined with features such as motion sensing alarms or panic buttons that can instantly alert a designated person of the worker’s location and status.<br /><br />The global positioning system (GPS) is an accurate network of satellites that can locate a tracker’s position without the need for cell phone reception. TWIG Australia’s lone worker GPS tracking devices are based on this technology and have been designed specifically for lone worker protection. The device transmits a GPS signal from an underground relay before sending a message to a satellite in high orbit around the Earth. The GPS coordinates are then transmitted to a monitoring centre where the location of the device is calculated and recorded.<br /><br />As a result, any lone worker with a lone working GPS tracker can be located quickly and accurately even in the most remote locations. In addition, the device can be used to automatically send a text or email message and an SOS message to a designated person. This can prove vitally important for lone workers who are involved in an incident such as a fall or other injury, or if they suffer from a medical crisis.<br /><br />Some lone worker devices also include the option to enable a worker to manually disable their tracking for short periods of time, in line with company lone working procedures. This gives employees the flexibility to use a lone worker monitoring device for their safety but not be monitored all the time, such as when visiting a relative or dropping children off at school.<br /><br />To ensure a lone worker’s safety, the company must establish clear lone working policies and develop a comprehensive emergency response plan to cover all scenarios that may arise. Depending on the risks identified, this could involve training lone workers in first aid or ensuring the presence of a colleague nearby to act as an immediate point of escalation for any potential problems that occur.<br /><br />Smartphones<br /><br />Many lone workers use smartphones to perform their jobs, especially when working from home or on the move. Many of these devices have a built-in panic button that can notify safety personnel. [https://loneworkerdevices.com Man Down Device] This can be useful for workers who may need to quickly raise the alarm – such as security guards patrolling a dark area, taxi drivers or maintenance staff who have access to power tools.<br /><br />These lone worker apps can also be programmed to disable all other unwanted functionality on the phone, so that for example, a driver can use their smartphone to check in, call a supervisor or request assistance but cannot browse the internet or access social media. This can improve both personal safety and productivity because workers will not be distracted during their shift.<br /><br />The newest development in smartphone technology is the ability to enable voice commands. This feature allows users to open the app, start their shift, check in or request help without touching their device. This is extremely useful for people who are moving around a lot or working up ladders.<br /><br />Dedicated lone worker devices have a built-in panic button which is designed to reduce battery strain on the phone. These devices can also be used in conjunction with other safety and smart working systems. For example, some body-worn cameras can be linked together using Bluetooth so that if one camera is activated, all of them will turn on, and the footage can be sent to an incident command centre for emergency response.<br /><br />Many lone worker devices can be connected to GPS trackers for improved location monitoring. This is particularly important for workers who are operating in remote settings where cell coverage is often unreliable. In some cases, a lone worker safety solution will incorporate both cellular and satellite connectivity, such as the Bivy Stick which can transform a standard smartphone into a lone worker device with global coverage via the Iridium satellite network.<br /><br />In addition to the above technologies, many lone workers use other safety equipment such as personal alarms. These can be helpful for workers who are at risk of being physically attacked or if they lose their way and need to get back on track. They are also a great way to make employees feel safer and show that their employer takes their safety seriously.
Lone worker technology is a great way to keep your employees safe while they are working alone. Technologies like GPS tracking, Wifi/BLE indoor positioning, mobile apps and panic buttons are all vital tools to help ensure the safety of your lone workers.<br /><br />Start by conducting a thorough hazard assessment of your workspace and area. From there, you can identify any risks and implement a lone worker safety plan.<br /><br />GPS Tracking<br /><br />For many types of lone workers, GPS tracking is a critical tool that can help employers monitor the safety of their employees. Often used in combination with mobile apps and web portals, these monitoring tools allow lone workers to check in regularly and provide their employer or supervisor with real-time geolocation data. If an employee fails to check in or if an alert system detects that they are experiencing an emergency, the system can trigger a response from supervisors or dispatchers.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Lone workers working in construction, oil and gas wells or other industries may work in remote settings where cellular connectivity is unreliable. These lone workers require a solution that can switch seamlessly between cellular and satellite connectivity so they can always stay connected and get assistance if needed.<br /><br />When paired with our live monitoring, the SPOT device allows workers to stay in touch and communicate with supervisors or colleagues via two-way messaging (independent of cellular coverage), track their location using a built-in GPS, map routes and more. With the ability to activate a manual SOS latch that automatically notifies monitoring personnel, this portable device is an affordable and effective lone worker technology. For added privacy, employees can use the Privacy Mode option, which stops all tracking when they end a lone working session or their personal SOS alarm is triggered.<br /><br />Mobile Apps<br /><br />Lone workers are often deployed into remote settings where cellular connectivity is non-existent or unreliable. Mobile apps can be used to enable communication with supervisors, as well as provide a platform for a variety of safety features that help keep lone workers safe and empowered.<br /><br />Apps of this type often allow a worker to check in with a supervisor, either to confirm they are okay or to ask for assistance. They may also include a panic button that can send an emergency alert with the exact location in two seconds, even if the user does not have their phone open or the screen locked.<br /><br />These types of solutions are especially useful for security guards who need to be able to contact supervisors in the event of a medical, fire or other emergency. They can also be configured to provide a countdown timer to notify the security team that the employee has not checked in within a set time frame.<br /><br />In addition, many of these apps are fully operational when disconnected from a cellular network and are designed to not drain a user’s mobile battery. They also tend to be easy to use, which is important since a technology that is too complicated or difficult to use will not get used and will not be effective. The best lone work technology is one that is easy for employees to understand and feel comfortable using, which will lead to its adoption and usage.<br /><br />Panic Button<br /><br />Lone worker technology needs to provide employees with a convenient way to get help. This is especially important if they are dealing with potentially dangerous situations. Lone workers in the Hospitality, Healthcare and Education industries are particularly vulnerable to attack or harassment from members of the public. As a result, hotels, hospitals and educational institutions are investing in systems that allow staff to request assistance with just the press of a button.<br /><br />These systems work over Bluetooth or wi-fi and are easy for employees like hotel housekeepers to use throughout their working day. They can also be easily adapted for use in the event of a medical emergency. This type of lone worker system will notify a designated team member and alert them to the user’s exact location. This can be incredibly helpful in the case of a medical crisis as well as for emergency response teams who need to reach someone quickly to respond.<br /><br />In certain cities and states, employee safety legislation requires employers to provide their lone workers with some type of panic button. This is a great way to show employees that their employer cares about their safety and has a duty of care in the workplace. It can also be a valuable tool for those who are at risk of assault or who have been victimized in the past.<br /><br />Two-Way Audio<br /><br />Lone workers perform some of the most dangerous jobs, and they are prone to encountering situations that can quickly turn deadly. [https://loneworkeralarms.com.au/ man down alarm] Whether it’s an accident, threat, or medical emergency, having the ability to signal for help is essential for lone workers. Having a discreet and undetectable device or app that allows them to contact their employer, supervisor or, in serious cases, emergency services is key.<br /><br />Work alone safety devices allow employees to be tracked, communicated with and protected from a variety of potential risks, such as falling, being attacked, or being trapped. With a range of options available, including GPS tracking, two-way wireless voice communication and evacuation management, it’s important to choose a solution that integrates seamlessly with your employees' workflow.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Using a smartphone or dedicated lone worker device, workers are prompted to check-in at predetermined intervals to confirm they are safe. Alternatively, they can activate the panic button to immediately alert safety personnel. Many of these devices also offer fall detection, GPS location capability, and recorded voice notes to log activities and provide further information on a situation.<br /><br />Having the best work alone safety device means selecting one that offers a range of features and is backed by a 24/7 BS8484 accredited alarm receiving centre. Blackline Safety offers an extensive work alone safety product range, with their flagship device, G7 offering a range of industry-leading features including GPS, fall and no-motion detection, gas detection, automated check-ins, 2-way communication and evacuation management.<br /><br />

Latest revision as of 20:48, 23 January 2024

Lone worker technology is a great way to keep your employees safe while they are working alone. Technologies like GPS tracking, Wifi/BLE indoor positioning, mobile apps and panic buttons are all vital tools to help ensure the safety of your lone workers.

Start by conducting a thorough hazard assessment of your workspace and area. From there, you can identify any risks and implement a lone worker safety plan.

GPS Tracking

For many types of lone workers, GPS tracking is a critical tool that can help employers monitor the safety of their employees. Often used in combination with mobile apps and web portals, these monitoring tools allow lone workers to check in regularly and provide their employer or supervisor with real-time geolocation data. If an employee fails to check in or if an alert system detects that they are experiencing an emergency, the system can trigger a response from supervisors or dispatchers.





Lone workers working in construction, oil and gas wells or other industries may work in remote settings where cellular connectivity is unreliable. These lone workers require a solution that can switch seamlessly between cellular and satellite connectivity so they can always stay connected and get assistance if needed.

When paired with our live monitoring, the SPOT device allows workers to stay in touch and communicate with supervisors or colleagues via two-way messaging (independent of cellular coverage), track their location using a built-in GPS, map routes and more. With the ability to activate a manual SOS latch that automatically notifies monitoring personnel, this portable device is an affordable and effective lone worker technology. For added privacy, employees can use the Privacy Mode option, which stops all tracking when they end a lone working session or their personal SOS alarm is triggered.

Mobile Apps

Lone workers are often deployed into remote settings where cellular connectivity is non-existent or unreliable. Mobile apps can be used to enable communication with supervisors, as well as provide a platform for a variety of safety features that help keep lone workers safe and empowered.

Apps of this type often allow a worker to check in with a supervisor, either to confirm they are okay or to ask for assistance. They may also include a panic button that can send an emergency alert with the exact location in two seconds, even if the user does not have their phone open or the screen locked.

These types of solutions are especially useful for security guards who need to be able to contact supervisors in the event of a medical, fire or other emergency. They can also be configured to provide a countdown timer to notify the security team that the employee has not checked in within a set time frame.

In addition, many of these apps are fully operational when disconnected from a cellular network and are designed to not drain a user’s mobile battery. They also tend to be easy to use, which is important since a technology that is too complicated or difficult to use will not get used and will not be effective. The best lone work technology is one that is easy for employees to understand and feel comfortable using, which will lead to its adoption and usage.

Panic Button

Lone worker technology needs to provide employees with a convenient way to get help. This is especially important if they are dealing with potentially dangerous situations. Lone workers in the Hospitality, Healthcare and Education industries are particularly vulnerable to attack or harassment from members of the public. As a result, hotels, hospitals and educational institutions are investing in systems that allow staff to request assistance with just the press of a button.

These systems work over Bluetooth or wi-fi and are easy for employees like hotel housekeepers to use throughout their working day. They can also be easily adapted for use in the event of a medical emergency. This type of lone worker system will notify a designated team member and alert them to the user’s exact location. This can be incredibly helpful in the case of a medical crisis as well as for emergency response teams who need to reach someone quickly to respond.

In certain cities and states, employee safety legislation requires employers to provide their lone workers with some type of panic button. This is a great way to show employees that their employer cares about their safety and has a duty of care in the workplace. It can also be a valuable tool for those who are at risk of assault or who have been victimized in the past.

Two-Way Audio

Lone workers perform some of the most dangerous jobs, and they are prone to encountering situations that can quickly turn deadly. man down alarm Whether it’s an accident, threat, or medical emergency, having the ability to signal for help is essential for lone workers. Having a discreet and undetectable device or app that allows them to contact their employer, supervisor or, in serious cases, emergency services is key.

Work alone safety devices allow employees to be tracked, communicated with and protected from a variety of potential risks, such as falling, being attacked, or being trapped. With a range of options available, including GPS tracking, two-way wireless voice communication and evacuation management, it’s important to choose a solution that integrates seamlessly with your employees' workflow.





Using a smartphone or dedicated lone worker device, workers are prompted to check-in at predetermined intervals to confirm they are safe. Alternatively, they can activate the panic button to immediately alert safety personnel. Many of these devices also offer fall detection, GPS location capability, and recorded voice notes to log activities and provide further information on a situation.

Having the best work alone safety device means selecting one that offers a range of features and is backed by a 24/7 BS8484 accredited alarm receiving centre. Blackline Safety offers an extensive work alone safety product range, with their flagship device, G7 offering a range of industry-leading features including GPS, fall and no-motion detection, gas detection, automated check-ins, 2-way communication and evacuation management.