Return to site

Use of GPS Technology in Lone Worker Panic Buttons

 Lone worker devices and apps have a feature that allows users to send a help request with their real-time location. This function is especially important in areas where WIFI and cellular signal may be unreliable. Triggering this alarm sends an alert to designated monitors - usually a supervisor or a 24-hour call centre. This helps companies meet their duty of care for lone workers who work away from the office. Location Tracking GPS technology is often used in lone worker panic buttons to provide an accurate location. This helps employers verify the safety of workers in case of an accident or violence, and also boosts the accountability of employees who work alone. This can be done by using a 3rd party online live tracking service that uses GPS technology to silently reveal the device’s location to the user and/or their contacts, although accuracy of this type of data is dependent on environment and can be reduced by tall buildings, underground carparks and inside dwellings. Another option is to use a lone worker GPS panic button such as PanicGO Link, which connects via the Android phone (or Apple iPhone with an appropriate hands-free mount) to a 24/7 UK Careline call centre. Discreetly pressing the Bluetooth button alerts the call centre that help is needed and allows them to contact the employee directly. This can be particularly helpful for those who work outside of mobile coverage areas. Man-Down/Fall Detection Falls remain the number one cause of workplace deaths. Lone workers need to know that they can summon help if they fall or become incapacitated on the job. Personal alarms allow employees operating alone to send a duress alert to their supervisor or a monitoring center. These devices can be as simple as pendant buttons or as sophisticated as a smartphone app that can also include features like real-time location tracking and two-way communication. Some lone worker devices offer an optional Man Down feature that monitors an employee’s movements for an extended period of time. If the device senses no movement or a horizontal tilt, it automatically triggers an emergency alert. The user can then use the app to manually cancel the alert and notify a response team or individuals that they need assistance. Other lone work safety solutions piggyback on your existing radio network to periodically check in with your employees. This 'Alive Check' solution sends a message directly to a mobile lone worker’s radio handset asking them to confirm their safety status. If no response is received, the solution sends a 'Man Down' alert to an emergency contact list or designated individuals. Two-Way Communication Lone workers often operate in remote locations, putting them at risk for an attack or getting lost. A personal alarm with two-way communication can help these employees stay safe, as they can send a signal asking for assistance without the need to unlock a mobile app and locate the emergency button. Two-way communication encourages dialogue between sender and receiver and allows for feedback. It also ensures that information is delivered accurately and understood by both parties. It is especially important for lone worker safety because it provides an opportunity for them to request help quickly and effectively. When choosing a lone worker safety device, consider how it will fit into your employees’ workflows. man down alarm monitoring For example, if your workers are already carrying too much equipment or aren’t used to using extra technology on the job, a device that requires more steps than usual might not be appropriate. Also, consider whether or not the device will work in your workplaces’ remote locations; some devices are designed to work with satellite networks in places where cell service is unavailable. Safety Alerts Lone worker safety devices allow you to monitor employees’ locations at all times. This data can help you identify any potential issues, and it also helps you fulfil your business’s duty of care to keep your staff safe. Regardless of whether your team is using dedicated devices, apps or handheld panic buttons, a reliable lone worker safety solution will send an alert to the monitoring center with their exact location, the reason for their emergency and any other relevant details. This ensures that the incident is handled quickly and escalated appropriately, in line with your business’s predetermined escalation procedure. Lone workers such as healthcare and social service providers, care workers, hotel employees, security personnel and others work alone and are often in dangerous environments. In fact, many states and cities have laws requiring the provision of personal alarm systems such as panic buttons. Having a lone worker safety system in place is critical to their wellbeing and your business’s liability protection.

man down alarm monitoring