Lone Worker Technology: 5 Technology-Based Safety Solutions

Ensuring the safety of lone and remote workers is so important for organizations across various industries. Imagine a world where lone workers can confidently perform their tasks, knowing they have an arsenal of cutting-edge technologies at their disposal. From real-time monitoring systems to state-of-the-art wearable technology, these innovative tools are revolutionizing worker safety, while also keeping lone workers safe and empowered.

The International Data Corporation (IDC) estimates that there are over 1.3 billion mobile workers working independently throughout the world. Advances in communications technology means these workers can work anywhere at any time. These new technologies also mean these mobile workers will work alone at some point during their workday. As an employer you're obligated to keep them safe.

Here is an overview of 5 common lone worker scenarios, and the technology-based safety solutions that will keep your employees safe.

Top 5 Technology-Based Lone Worker Safety Solutions

Working remotely with unreliable cell coverage

In today's fast-paced and interconnected world, many individuals find themselves working remotely, often in locations with unreliable cell coverage. This poses unique challenges for lone workers who need to ensure their safety and well-being while operating in isolated environments. In these remote settings with limited cellular connectivity, a lone worker safety solution must be able to switch seamlessly between cellular and satellite connectivity.

Explore our advanced lone worker tracking solution to see how we can enhance safety and connectivity for your remote workforce.

Crews may travel to oil and gas wells and construction where cellphone coverage is unreliable, or travel from one valley that has cell coverage to another valley that does not. They need a solution that provides comprehensive connectivity no matter where they are.

As well, while lone workers may be dispatched in pairs or as part of a crew, they will likely work alone, out of eye or voice contact with other team members. Your business must implement a plan to keep them safe.

In this scenario, lone workers can use the following devices to check in, call for immediate help, or send an SOS:

• A smart band paired with a cellphone app to send an SOS

• The cell phone app can also send regular updates and notifications over a cellular network

• A pendant, when connected to a vehicle equipped with a modem, can also be used to send an SOS

• When out of cellphone contact, a satellite device can be used to check in and send notifications to the monitor

Lone worker safety solutions for truck drivers

Truck driving is a demanding profession that often requires drivers to work alone for long hours, traversing vast distances and sometimes encountering hazardous situations. Ensuring the safety of lone truck drivers is the top priority for both the drivers themselves and their employers. To safeguard these individuals and ensure their safety, the integration of advanced lone worker safety technology has become a necessity.

For truck drivers, a mobile smartphone app is the most efficient way to make scheduled check ins with dispatch and safety managers, or request assistance and help.

While most trucking routes travel within range of cellphone networks, transport drivers traveling to remote locations can also connect with a satellite device to check in, request assistance or send an SOS.

Lone worker safety solutions for outdoor security providers

Some mobile security providers travel from place to place to protect buildings and assets in urban, rural and remote settings. They often work alone and must check in at regular intervals. To address the unique safety challenges faced by those operating in lone worker conditions, the adoption of advanced lone worker technology has emerged as an effective solution.

A typical lone worker solution for mobile security providers can include:

• A smart band paired with a cellphone app to send an SOS

• The cell phone app can also send regular updates and notifications over a cellular network. Check our remote worker safety monitoring app to see how it can enhance the safety and connectivity of your workforce.

• A pendant, when connected to a vehicle equipped with a modem, can also be used to broadcast an SOS

• When out of cellphone contact, a satellite device can be used to check in and send notifications to the Control Center

Lone worker safety in the service industry

As with security providers, many workers in the service industry travel from location to location and work alone as they complete tasks. This can include janitorial and building maintenance workers, and tradespeople such as plumbers and electricians, who often find themselves at risk due to their solitary way of working.

With the development of advanced lone worker solutions, employers now have powerful tools at their disposal to enhance lone worker safety and security.

Common lone worker safety solutions for this group of workers include:

• Smartbands that are paired with a mobile app to send an SOS

• Connecting with a mobile app via cellular networks to check in or request assistance

Lone worker safety for traveling executives and sales staff

This last category of “at-risk” employment is not typically regarded as being a “lone worker” scenario. However, company executives, including management and sales staff will work alone from time to time, and therefore must be protected.

For example, business executives may travel by car to visit branch offices or to attend industry events. A lone worker check-in procedure should be implemented for these journeys. Sales staff or other employees traveling to visit client sites are also working alone at various times.

Common lone worker safety solutions for this group of workers include:

• Smartbands that are paired with a mobile app to send an SOS

• Connecting with a mobile app via cellular networks to check in or request assistance

Keeping at-risk workers safe

Thanks to mobile devices, workers are frequently untethered from working in one physical space. Many employees will start to work alone for at least part of their workday. The challenge for employers is to identify these “at-risk” workers, and then to develop and implement meaningful procedures to keep them safe. For a detailed look at some of the best lone worker safety devices, check out our comprehensive guide to the top 5 safety devices to protect lone workers.

Being aware of this shift in work is the first step in addressing worker safety. After that, employers must determine what lone worker safety solution is most effective for their employees.

If you are looking to improve the safety of your lone workers then look no further than Aware360. Book a meeting with us and find out how we can help you adopt the right safety solutions and devices for your business.

FAQs

Can lone worker technology be integrated with other safety measures

Yes, lone worker technology can be integrated with other safety measures to enhance overall lone worker safety and security. Lone worker technology typically involves the use of devices, such as personal alarms, wearable technology, mobile apps, etc., to monitor and protect individuals who work alone in potentially hazardous environments or situations.

Integrating multiple safety measures can help mitigate risks and ensure the well-being of individuals working alone.

Is lone worker technology only for outdoor workers?

No, lone worker technology is not exclusive to outdoor workers. While it is commonly associated with outdoor or remote workers, such as those in industries like construction, or utilities, lone worker technology can also be utilized in indoor settings.

Indoor workers in various professions may benefit from lone worker technology as well. For instance, healthcare professionals, social workers, and security guards may find it useful. Lone worker technology can provide an added layer of safety and security by allowing workers to send alerts, communicate their exact location, and request assistance in case of emergencies or hazardous situations.

The specific safety features and capabilities of lone worker technology may vary depending on the provider and the industry's requirements.

Is lone worker technology a legal requirement?

The legal requirements surrounding lone worker technology vary depending on the country and jurisdiction. There is no universal legal responsibility mandating the use of lone worker technology in all jurisdictions. However, specific countries or industries may have regulations or guidelines in place that require certain safety measures for lone workers.

For example, in some countries, employers are required by law to conduct risk assessments and take appropriate measures to ensure the safety and well-being of their lone workers. This may involve implementing lone worker technologies or other safety measures. Industries such as healthcare often have specific regulations or guidelines referring to the safety of lone workers.

It's important to note that laws and regulations can change over time, so it's essential to consult the relevant authorities or legal experts in your jurisdiction to determine the current requirements regarding lone worker technology.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Paul Turner is VP of Sales and Marketing at Aware360, a leading end-to-end lone worker safety solutions provider. We help hundreds of businesses become more efficient, increase revenue and keep their employees safe.