Lone Worker Technology Solutions

Whether they work in remote environments that lack cell coverage or just have a mobile workforce, companies must be aware of the risks involved and put processes and procedures in place to protect employees. This includes lone worker safety solutions with emergency escalation chains, live monitoring and more.





Look for a solution that’s easy to use and understand so your team actually uses it. That will ensure that it works as intended in an emergency.

1. Mobile App

Mobile apps can provide lone workers with an effective safety solution by using the phone they already own. They are a cost-effective and easy to use option, providing many of the same functions as other lone worker devices such as a panic button, GPS tracking/location, and regular check-ins.

A lone worker app is ideal for workers who have a medical condition, those working in potentially dangerous environments (like a power plant), or those who are at risk of violence. The ability to monitor an employee’s location and status at all times provides a peace of mind for both the employee and the business.

An app-based lone worker system can be customised to the specific needs of the organisation. For example, a lone worker app can be programmed to automatically check-in at the beginning and end of their shift, send an alarm if they are not checked in within a pre-determined time, and even have a man down feature that can be activated by a supervisor or security guard.

The SHEQSY lone worker app also allows organisations to view historical data and reports from their employees. This enables them to analyze their site risks, manage their emergency response procedures and integrate their lone worker management into other office systems like calendars and scheduling platforms. The app is also designed to work without a connection and can be updated easily.

2. Satellite Devices

Some lone worker solutions incorporate devices that can automatically send out alerts in case of a potential emergency situation. Using BLE technology to measure location and movement as well as other data streams such as humidity, acceleration, temperature and ambient light, the device captures patterns that can be used to identify when someone is in distress or near the point of danger. This data can then be sent to the next contact in the escalation chain or to a live monitoring station where the lone worker can be located and dispatched assistance accordingly.

Devices can be handheld satellite devices, discreet Bluetooth panic buttons or even modem devices integrated into vehicles and work spaces. These are commonly deployed for lone workers who need to stay connected in remote locations or in places where mobile phone coverage is unavailable. Examples include in-home healthcare professionals who may need to discreetly call for help without their patients noticing and security guards at risk of being confronted by an aggressor and therefore need a quick and easy way to request assistance from colleagues.

For instance, the BLACKLINE G7x system combines a lone worker app with handheld satellite devices to enable workers in remote or isolated environments to communicate directly with their team and management from anywhere. It enables them to easily carry out their lone working procedures and be accounted for in real-time, while helping organizations stay compliant with workplace health and safety laws. The solution combines the Blackline GO app with the Garmin inReach SE+ and Explorer satellite communications devices, and the SHEQSY lone worker safety application to offer a fully customizable, end-to-end lone worker technology solution.

3. Wearable Devices

Often, lone workers work alone in remote and hazardous environments. As a result, they are more exposed to risk and need to rely on their own ability to respond quickly in emergency situations. Lone worker technology can help them do this by providing them with a lifeline to their managers or a designated emergency contact. The technology can be as simple as a smartphone app or as complex as a bluetooth device or handheld satellite device.

Regardless of the type of device, most lone worker solutions include functionality like GPS location sharing, panic/emergency activation and alerting, and periodic well-being check-ins. Some may also offer a discreet panic button and two-way audio for more specific use cases.

The devices can be worn around the neck or attached to keys, making them more discreet than a mobile phone. man down alarm They are usually small, light and easy to handle. Some come with a SIM and subscription charges that can be integrated into one monthly cost.

A lone worker monitoring system is an effective tool to protect employees who work alone in remote or vulnerable locations. By enabling them to monitor their safety, it helps employers meet their duty of care and improve employee wellbeing. It can also help them comply with lone working regulations and norms.

4. Monitoring

Lone workers are exposed to a higher risk of harm than their colleagues due to working alone, often in remote and hostile environments. To protect them, businesses must implement a solution that provides the best level of protection, based on their specific needs and risks.

A Lone Worker Monitoring solution uses a smartphone to enable employees to check-in with an Alarm Receiving Centre (ARC) at the touch of a button and to trigger a duress call if they feel at risk. A team of care consultants monitor the solution 24/7 and are able to follow up on incidents, monitor real time alerts and send emergency services as necessary. Lone worker monitoring solutions can also provide a way to keep track of a workers location throughout their shifts. This can be done using a background mode so that the app does not need to be kept open on a workers phone and so they are protected even when the lone worker app is not in use.

Lone Worker Monitoring solutions are fully compliant with BS8484 and can be integrated with existing mobile phones, satellite devices or a range of bespoke wearables and hardware to create a comprehensive service. In addition to this, a full suite of reports and analytics is available that give employers the ability to evaluate their safety program, determine how well the solution is being utilized, and ensure law enforcement are dispatched as necessary when an incident occurs.