Last Updated on May 2, 2023 by Ossian Muscad
Personal safety devices are an invaluable tool when it comes to keeping lone and remote workers safe. Equipping your employees with these devices can help ensure their well-being and give you peace of mind.
In this guide, we’ll delve into the advantages of deploying personal safety devices for long-working employees, exploring how they can be used to keep your staff safe in various situations. We’ll also provide tips on choosing the right device for your organization’s needs and advice on implementing them effectively. So if you’re considering investing in personal safety devices for your staff, read on to find out more!
What is a Personal Safety Device?
A personal safety device is a small wearable or handheld device that enables lone and remote workers to send an emergency signal if they are in danger. The device typically has a button that can be pressed to activate the alarm, alerting a designated contact (e.g., the employee’s manager or colleague) of their predicament.
Personal safety devices come in many features for lone workers, including panic alarms, check-in systems, GPS tracking, and communication tools. These devices aim to provide additional security to employees who work alone in isolated or remote areas. Companies can manage and track their employees’ real-time location, activities, and safety through personal safety devices, ensuring their well-being.
Types of Personal Safety Devices
Personal safety devices come in a range of shapes and sizes, depending on your organization’s specific needs. Here are the main types of personal safety devices available:
Panic Alarms
When activated, these devices trigger an alarm, which is sent to a designated contact for help. They typically come with GPS tracking and two-way communication features. In addition, some devices may include a fall detection feature and the ability to call emergency services.
Lone Worker Safety Apps
These mobile applications provide safety features to individuals who work alone or in remote locations. They offer features like GPS tracking, panic buttons, and check-in notifications.
Bluetooth Devices
These devices come in the form of wearable jewelry or clip-on and can be connected to a smartphone. They offer features like GPS tracking, SOS alerts, and location sharing with trusted contacts.
Handheld Satellite Devices
These devices connect to satellite networks and provide coverage in areas with no cellphone reception. They offer features like two-way texting, SOS alerts, and GPS tracking. These devices are commonly used for outdoor activities like camping, hiking, and mountaineering.
Keychain Alarms
When activated, these small devices emit a loud sound to attract attention and deter potential attackers. A pin or a button typically activates them, and they are easy to carry around on a keychain or purse.
Personal Safety Whistles
These are small, lightweight whistles that can be used to signal for help in an emergency. They are often used by hikers or outdoor enthusiasts and are designed to be loud enough to be heard from a distance. They can also be used with other safety devices like flashlights or GPS trackers.
Why Lone Workers Need Personal Safety Devices
Of all the factors to consider when it comes to workplace safety, lone workers are at higher risk than others due to their remote and solitary nature. Providing lone workers with the necessary safety measures to protect them in various situations is essential. With that said, here are some reasons why lone workers need personal safety devices the most:
Increase Employee Safety
Lone workers are at a higher risk of workplace accidents, violence, and injury. Personal safety devices offer a way for employers to keep their employees safe and provide them with a tool to alert them for help in case of an emergency.
Comply with Government Requirements
In many countries, employers are required by law to provide a safe working environment for their employees, including those who work alone. Personal safety devices can help employers meet these requirements and avoid penalties or legal issues.
Simplify Lone Worker Management
Personal safety devices make it easier for employers to manage their lone workers more effectively. With features like GPS tracking and check-in notifications, employers can monitor their employees’ location and ensure they are safe without having to contact them directly. This can save time and simplify the management of lone workers.
Workers That Require Personal Safety Devices
Personal safety devices are essential for different lone workers. These workers include, but are not limited to, the following:
Healthcare Workers
Healthcare workers often work alone and can be at risk of violence or harassment from patients and visitors. Personal safety devices like panic buttons or wearable alarms can help healthcare workers alert for help in an emergency.
Delivery Drivers
Delivery drivers spend a significant amount of time driving, often in unfamiliar areas, and can be at risk of accidents or attacks. Personal safety devices like GPS trackers and panic buttons can help drivers alert for help in case of an emergency or if they become lost or stranded.
Field Service Technicians
Field service technicians often work alone in remote locations and can be at risk of accidents, falls, or animal attacks. Personal safety devices like GPS trackers and lone worker safety apps can alert technicians for help in an emergency and enable employers to monitor their employees’ location.
Retail Workers
Retail workers can be at risk of violence or theft, especially if they work alone or in high-risk areas. Personal safety devices like panic buttons or handheld alarms can help retail workers alert for help in case of an emergency.
Must-Have Personal Safety Device Features
When considering personal safety devices, there are several features that individuals and employers should look for to ensure maximum safety and effectiveness:
- GPS Tracking: Devices with GPS tracking are essential to help locate individuals in case of an emergency. This feature can also help employers monitor their employees and provide assistance if they become lost or stranded.
- Panic Button: A panic button or emergency alert feature is essential for individuals to quickly call for help in an emergency. This feature should be easily accessible and simple to use without requiring much effort.
- Two-Way Communication: Devices facilitating two-way communication are essential for individuals to speak with emergency responders or family and friends. This feature should function in areas outside of cellular service or Wi-Fi coverage.
- Loud Alarm: Personal safety devices with an audible alarm or whistle can deter potential attackers and attract attention if an emergency arises.
- Long Battery Life: Choosing devices with long battery life is essential. This feature is crucial in preventing the device from running out of charge, especially in emergency situations.
- Durability and Waterproofing: Durable and waterproof devices can withstand rough environments and remain functional even in harsh weather conditions.
- Automatic Fall Detection: Personal safety devices with automatic fall detection can be lifesavers for individuals who work in high places or are at risk of falls. These devices can automatically detect if someone has fallen and call for help immediately.
- Ease of Use: Finally, personal safety devices should be easy to use without technical know-how or training. They should be user-friendly, ideally with simple buttons and straightforward instructions.
Manage Personal Safety Devices Using a Low-code Platform
Personal safety devices are essential, especially when protecting lone and remote workers. However, managing safety devices can be complicated if you don’t have the right tools. Fortunately, a low-code platform can make managing personal safety devices easier and monitoring employee safety in real time.
Low-code platforms are designed to help organizations develop, deploy, and manage applications quickly without needing in-depth coding knowledge. This makes it easier to keep track of employees’ locations and contact details and configure alerts and notifications in case of an emergency.
DATAMYTE is a quality management platform with low-code capabilities. The DataMyte Digital Clipboard is a low-code workflow automation software that comes with a built-in checklist and smart form builder. This feature, along with its drag-and-drop interface, allows you to create any checklist and form template you need—including templates for managing personal safety devices.
To create a checklist or form template using DATAMYTE, follow these steps:
- Log in to DATAMYTE and navigate to the ‘Checklist’ module.
- Click “Create Checklist” to create a new checklist or form template.
- Add a Title to the checklist or form template; select the category it belongs to.
- Click “Add Item” to add items to the checklist or form template.
- Add appropriate descriptions to each item, the type of answer it requires, and other relevant specifications, such as reference documents, acceptance criteria, or potential limits.
- Assign the personnel responsible for completing the checklist.
- Indicate any required approvals from other relevant personnel, such as supervisors or quality assurance managers.
- Save your checklist; it will now be available on any device. You can also print a physical copy of your checklist.
DATAMYTE also lets you conduct layered process audits, a systematic review of critical process steps. This auditing method focuses on the areas with the highest risk of failure or non-compliance. By conducting LPA using DATAMYTE, you can effectively identify and correct defects before they escalate.
With DATAMYTE, you have the perfect solution for creating and implementing templates for personal safety devices. Book a demo with us today to learn how DATAMYTE can help your organization protect its lone and remote workers.
Conclusion
If you are employing lone and remote workers and need to ensure their safety, consider investing in personal safety devices. These tools provide the perfect solution for keeping your employees safe, no matter where they are. Additionally, a low-code platform like DATAMYTE can make it easier to manage and monitor safety devices in real time. With DATAMYTE, you can quickly create and implement templates for personal safety devices and protect your workers.
