Choosing a lone worker safety solution can be tricky.
There are myriad devices on the market, each of which offers slightly different protections and comes into its own in different work environments.
ATEX handsets, for example, are perfect when working with hazardous and explosive materials because they are industry-standard inflammable devices.
In other, less volatile work environments, a more lightweight device or safety app might be the way to go when it comes to lone worker safety.
So how do you select the right lone worker solution for your employees?
Let’s find out.
Map the Geography
Both the geography and topography of a work site should be taken into account when identifying which lone worker safety device is most appropriate.
In remote areas with patchy or unreliable communications networks, you’re not going to be able to rely on WIFI or the mobile phone network to keep in contact with lone workers.
Instead, you may need to deploy a lone worker communications network that exploits the power of a technology such as DECT to maintain contact.
DECT involves installing dedicated routers around a work site, allowing auto-switching as the worker traverses the site and ensures the lone worker always has a robust signal.
In geographies where the communications network is more reliable, Wi-Fi-connected or mobile phone devices might be more appropriate.
These don’t need the dedicated equipment of DECT but instead use a site’s existing WIFI or mobile network to keep the lone worker in touch with colleagues.
Identify Worker Needs
The lone worker’s needs should be at the front of your mind when adopting a safety technology.
It’s all very well having the best-in-class safety equipment, but if it doesn’t suit the worker or their work environment, it can be more of a hindrance than a help.
So, for example, it’s important to take into account the nature of the lone worker’s tasks when shopping around for safety solutions – perhaps the worker needs to keep their hands free while out on a job, so a bulky device might not be the way to go.
Instead, in such circumstances, a lone worker app running on a belt-worn smart device or even a simple personal alarm attached to a lanyard might be a more appropriate bit of kit.
Weigh up the Technology
Finally, when identifying which lone worker solution is best for you, it’s best to familiarise yourself with all the lone worker tech available.
A company such as ANT Telecom offers a range of state-of-the-art lone worker safety solutions.
The main options include:
Lone Worker Apps and Devices: These are both cost-effective and convenient as they don’t need any specialized equipment to work and come with a host of safety features, such as on-screen SOS buttons and true man-down detection.
Digitally Enhanced Cordless Telecommunications (DECT): Ideal for sites with poor mobile coverage and where the lone worker is expected to move about the site and keep in touch with colleagues.
Voice Over WiFi (VoWiFi): Utilizes existing WiFi networks to provide the lone worker with a voice channel to communicate with colleagues.
Two-way Radio: Ideal where the lone worker can’t rely on WIFI or digital communications channel. Also a good option where extended battery life is required.
Push-to-Talk Over Cellular (PoC): This offers a two-way radio-style communications channel but uses modern digital technology to deliver the messages, so it can be operated conveniently via compatible smartphones and devices.
Conclusion
Choosing the right lone worker safety solution can be a bit of a headache.
But by assessing the main risks, understanding the worksite geography and weighing up the available technology, it’s possible to identify the tech that will keep all your lone workers safe.
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