Lone worker technology is a great way to keep your employees safe while they are working alone. Technologies like GPS tracking, Wifi/BLE indoor positioning, mobile apps and panic buttons are all vital tools to help ensure the safety of your lone workers.Start by conducting a thorough hazard assessment of your workspace and area. From there, you can identify any risks and implement a lone worker safety plan.GPS TrackingFor many types of lone workers, GPS tracking is a critical tool that can help employers monitor the safety of their employees. Often used in combination with mobile apps and web portals, these monitoring tools allow lone workers to check in regularly and provide their employer or supervisor with real-time geolocation data. If an employee fails to check in or if an alert system detects that they are experiencing an emergency, the system can trigger a response from supervisors or dispatchers.Lone workers working in construction, oil and gas wells or other industries may work in remote settings where cellular connectivity is unreliable. These lone workers require a solution that can switch seamlessly between cellular and satellite connectivity so they can always stay connected and get assistance if needed.When paired with our live monitoring, the SPOT device allows workers to stay in touch and communicate with supervisors or colleagues via two-way messaging (independent of cellular coverage), track their location using a built-in GPS, map routes and more. With the ability to activate a manual SOS latch that automatically notifies monitoring personnel, this portable device is an affordable and effective lone worker technology. For added privacy, employees can use the Privacy Mode option, which stops all tracking when they end a lone working session or their personal SOS alarm is triggered.Mobile AppsLone workers are often deployed into remote settings where cellular connectivity is non-existent or unreliable. Mobile apps can be used to enable communication with supervisors, as well as provide a platform for a variety of safety features that help keep lone workers safe and empowered.Apps of this type often allow a worker to check in with a supervisor, either to confirm they are okay or to ask for assistance. They may also include a panic button that can send an emergency alert with the exact location in two seconds, even if the user does not have their phone open or the screen locked.These types of solutions are especially useful for security guards who need to be able to contact supervisors in the event of a medical, fire or other emergency. They can also be configured to provide a countdown timer to notify the security team that the employee has not checked in within a set time frame.In addition, many of these apps are fully operational when disconnected from a cellular network and are designed to not drain a user’s mobile battery. They also tend to be easy to use, which is important since a technology that is too complicated or difficult to use will not get used and will not be effective. The best lone work technology is one that is easy for employees to understand and feel comfortable using, which will lead to its adoption and usage.Panic ButtonLone worker technology needs to provide employees with a convenient way to get help. This is especially important if they are dealing with potentially dangerous situations. Lone workers in the Hospitality, Healthcare and Education industries are particularly vulnerable to attack or harassment from members of the public. As a result, hotels, hospitals and educational institutions are investing in systems that allow staff to request assistance with just the press of a button.These systems work over Bluetooth or wi-fi and are easy for employees like hotel housekeepers to use throughout their working day. They can also be easily adapted for use in the event of a medical emergency. This type of lone worker system will notify a designated team member and alert them to the user’s exact location. This can be incredibly helpful in the case of a medical crisis as well as for emergency response teams who need to reach someone quickly to respond.In certain cities and states, employee safety legislation requires employers to provide their lone workers with some type of panic button. panic alarms personal This is a great way to show employees that their employer cares about their safety and has a duty of care in the workplace. It can also be a valuable tool for those who are at risk of assault or who have been victimized in the past.Two-Way AudioLone workers perform some of the most dangerous jobs, and they are prone to encountering situations that can quickly turn deadly. Whether it’s an accident, threat, or medical emergency, having the ability to signal for help is essential for lone workers. Having a discreet and undetectable device or app that allows them to contact their employer, supervisor or, in serious cases, emergency services is key.Work alone safety devices allow employees to be tracked, communicated with and protected from a variety of potential risks, such as falling, being attacked, or being trapped. With a range of options available, including GPS tracking, two-way wireless voice communication and evacuation management, it’s important to choose a solution that integrates seamlessly with your employees' workflow.Using a smartphone or dedicated lone worker device, workers are prompted to check-in at predetermined intervals to confirm they are safe. Alternatively, they can activate the panic button to immediately alert safety personnel. Many of these devices also offer fall detection, GPS location capability, and recorded voice notes to log activities and provide further information on a situation.Having the best work alone safety device means selecting one that offers a range of features and is backed by a 24/7 BS8484 accredited alarm receiving centre. Blackline Safety offers an extensive work alone safety product range, with their flagship device, G7 offering a range of industry-leading features including GPS, fall and no-motion detection, gas detection, automated check-ins, 2-way communication and evacuation management.