Technology has an important role to play in keeping workers safe, and is especially useful when it comes to monitoring lone workers and managing the risks they face.
Often built around smartphones and associated devices, smart safety technology can protect lone workers from all manner of risks and hazards they face as they go about their jobs.
At the heart of this tech is the modern communications networks: WIFI, GPS and Bluetooth.
Network connectivity allows safety technology to keep tabs on lone workers in real-time and, in turn, gives remote workers the means to stay in touch with colleagues and raise the alarm should an accident or emergency occur.
Below, we take a look at how to incorporate some of this smart technology into your lone worker safety regime.
Find the Best Fit
The tech used to keep lone workers safe has to be appropriate for the worker and the type of site the worker is expected to work on.
In some situations, for example, where workers are expected to handle combustible or explosive materials, only a heavy-duty ATEX-approved handset encased in an inert, ruggedised casing is up to the job of keeping workers in touch with colleagues.
In less risky environments, a better option might be an app-based lone worker alarm, which can be run on a compatible smart device, or even just a small safety fob attached to a lanyard on the worker’s belt.
Go With What’s Familiar
Many lone workers prize familiar, easy-to-use technology when it comes to safety tech.
The ubiquity of modern smartphones gives HR safety bosses a helping hand here, as many of the most advanced safety tools currently on the market can be downloaded and run on an everyday smartphone.
This means no new tech is required, and training can be kept to a minimum.
Old School Works
Where some workers prefer the familiarity of an app, some yearn for the days of the simple two-way radio.
In these cases, a handheld PoC device is a good option.
These devices operate much like old-school two-way radios, with a simple push-to-talk mechanism keeping workers in touch with colleagues and base, but are backed up by modern-day connectivity that comes from being attached to 4G, 5G or Wi-Fi networks.
PoC devices also often offer nationwide coverage, so the worker needn’t worry about losing coverage when he or she moves around worksites or to an entirely different location.
Use Feedback
Technology is key to keeping lone workers safe, but it’s just one part of the puzzle.
Training and monitoring are equally important, and feedback is essential if you’re to make the most of the technology you put at the disposal of workers.
By soliciting feedback on the technology they use, you give workers a chance to let you know where it works and where it doesn’t.
This builds trust, increases engagement in safety initiatives, and helps you identify patterns before they lead to safety issues.
Conclusion
Lone work is inherently risky, but there is technology out there that allows you to manage and mitigate the risks.
The worker and their needs should be at the heart of any lone worker safety regime – from choosing the right bits of kit for workers to getting feedback once it has been deployed.
Disclosure: This is a featured post.