Lone Worker Devices

Lone workers can be at high risk of harm if they’re not supported by employers that have a duty of care to protect them. This is why companies often implement a range of safety measures, including providing relevant PPE and running health and safety training programs. Lone worker devices are a crucial element of this, allowing lone employees to call for help quickly when they need it. They can include standalone hardware or downloadable apps on portable existing technology like smartphones and tablets.





One of the best ways to see if your lone workers need a device is to conduct a hazard assessment. Personal alert safety systems This will help you to identify any potential risks, and you can then look at ways to mitigate them. For example, if there are areas with poor or no cell signal, then it may be worth considering a device that uses satellite technology to allow your team to work safely even when off the grid.

There are several different types of lone worker devices, and the best type for your business will depend on the safety risks you face, your budget and the features you need. Typically, you’ll want to make sure that your device is wearable, discreet and easy to use. You’ll also need to consider the cost of the device itself, any SIM charges and any fees paid to the lone worker service provider. These may be rolled into a single monthly cost or charged per month, depending on the product and your requirements.

Some devices are simple, handheld alarms that lone workers can trigger when they feel threatened or at risk of an emergency. Other lone worker devices are designed to be more hands-free, with some incorporating sensors to detect hazards like falls and chemical leaks. Some can be activated manually by the lone employee, while others can be automatically triggered by certain events or conditions like changes in movement.

A lone worker device that’s connected to a 24/7 security monitoring center is more sophisticated, with advanced functionality like two-way communication, evacuation management and GPS location tracking. Blackline Safety’s Loner G7 range, for instance, is an all-in-one connected solution with a patented manual emergency SOS latch, fall detection, GPS, no motion detector and a battery life of up to five days.

Some lone worker devices are designed to be easily incorporated into an employee’s work routine, with many options being clipped onto a person’s ID badge or somewhere else on their clothing. These are ideal for industries that require employees to be in contact with the public, such as hospitality or healthcare, as they can help to deter attackers and prevent escalation of incidents.