Business downsizing and overhead stripping is
increasing the number of lone workers involved in
potentially hazardous environments.Thankfully there is
now a wide range of technology available designed to
help, but trying Business downsizing and overhead stripping is increasing the number of lone workers involved in potentially hazardous environments.Thankfully there is now a wide range of technology available designed to help, but trying to choose a solution can be daunting says Sanjay Jhawar, who offers a few pointers
Rugged GSM technologies (Global Systems for Mobile Communications) are becoming an increasingly popular choice for protecting lone workers. These powerful and robust mobile phones combine native software applications, visible and tactile panic buttons and accelerometers that can immediately detect falls or other accidents and GPS tracking - all specifically designed for lone worker scenarios.
Selecting mobile solutions With a plethora of network and mobile devices on the market, the evaluation process can be daunting. So where do you begin? Firstly, recognise that what works for consumers and enterprises can fall short when it comes to protecting workers in hazardous situations. Understanding workers' needs, their environment and the circumstances that define how they work is imperative in device selection.
Specifiers need to carry out proper risk assessment and then take into consideration the operating environment and any physical constraints facing workers.
For example, what environmental hazards are the devices exposed to that could impair performance and prevent a call? Does the handset need to be particulate, water, extreme temperature, impact or shock proof? Does the user wear protective gloves, goggles or sound deflectors? Does this require ergonomic key pads, large buttons/text, and visible call functions? Certain industrial applications require additional consideration such as ensuring ATEX Zone 1/21, ATEX Zone 2/22, FM C1D2 and FM C1/D1 certification to prevent dangers of sparks and combustion and ensure safe use.
Chemical and vibration resistance and ability to cope with extreme temperatures (-20°C to +55°C) may also be crucial to maintain reliable performance.
Lone worker features Some specialist mobile phones also integrate additional safety features for protecting lone workers. These include dedicated panic buttons that, when activated, trigger an immediate speakerphone call to an emergency response centre - complete GPS tracking information; and 'man-down' sensors that automatically signal an alarm if the worker falls down.
Some utilise a 3-axis accelerometer with g-force and duration thresholds, to indicate the precise kind and severity of fall a worker may have experienced. This precision helps avoid false alarms, which have a direct impact on operations centre responsiveness, resource costs and efficiencies.
When selecting devices, specifiers should be aware that some of this additional functionality places heavier demand on power usage. Consequently, battery life must also be a prime consideration when evaluating and comparing solutions.
Improved efficiency and safety While two-way radios have traditionally been the communications technology of choice for many industrial based workers, integrated GSM based devices with Near- Field Communications (NFC) capabilities, voice and data can offer a more robust and lower cost replacement.
The primary benefit? Proof of attendance. When activated, the NFC reader emits a short-range radio signal that activates a chip on a nearby tag. With embedded NFC, lone worker devices can track onsite attendance, as well key activities performed.
This technology makes it possible for managers to collect business operations intelligence from front line workers, confirm tasks and ensure quality control.
Solid commercial sense From an IT/Operations perspective, not only does any mobile solution for lone workers need to be embedded with additional features and reliable connectivity to protect lives, it must also be cost-effective, rugged and engineered with intelligence to maximise worker productivity and ensure solid return on investment.
Arming personnel with the right device not only protects their safety, but also allows them to more effectively and efficiently protect the operation as a whole.
Investing in reliable, rugged and smart connectivity allows both goals to be achieved making solid commercial sense for workers and their employers.
Sanjay Jhawar is VP/GM of Marketing and Applications of Sonim Technologies.
