Lone Worker Solutions

Over six million people in the UK work either in isolation or without direct supervision and often in places without close interaction with others they trust. Lone worker solutions are intended to provide safeguards against the potential risks and to reassure those workers affected.

You should be aware of your legal obligations to keep lone workers safe both on your premises and during your employment. You also need to ensure a risk assessment is carried out and strategies are implemented to provide a safe working environment for lone workers as well as providing adequate training, resources and information to keep them physically and mentally safe. This includes having a procedure to deal with a lone worker, accident, incident and signalling of an emergency.

• Web-based software enables essential visibility of employees in crisis situations
• End-to-end integration with fire safety, access control and security system integrations
• Incorporate provision with your health and safety policies and best practice

What does a lone worker device actually do?

A lone worker device raises an alarm when the user requires help. By pressing an ‘SOS’ button on a device, the user is connected to a 24/7/365 Alarm Receiving Centre where a trained operator can assist. A two-way communication system enables the operator to communicate with the lone worker, respond, assure and contact appropriate emergency services in real time guiding them to the user’s precise location.

Is a mobile phone signal required for the system to work?

Most lone worker solutions use a SIM card and therefore require a mobile phone signal. Some use satellite technology instead to raise an alarm. In addition, a roaming SIM is used in some systems to connect to the mobile phone network that is strongest in the area at the time.

What is the difference between a lone worker system and a smartphone app?

They are much the same and contain the same features - an emergency button facility and a two-way communication opportunity. A smartphone also allows users to raise an alarm by using the power button on the phone or the bluetooth button. In addition, smartphone users can call or text.

Do lone worker devices track the user?

Most lone worker solutions have GPS capabilities but the Alarm Receiving Centre will only receive the user’s location when the alarm is raised. This saves the operator and user time when and if an emergency situation arises. Good systems are certified to BS 8484:2016 and appropriate regulations. A managed lone worker solution includes a Unique Reference Number that the receiving centre operator uses to summon police, ambulance or the fire brigade and the operator will have immediate access to the user’s profile and background information which may be useful when passing on emergency assistance.

Ace works with a large range of manufacturing partners (including Honeywell Gold) and access a wide variety of technology and solutions. Ace will tailor, recommend, install and train you on the appropriate solution ensuring maximum safety for lone and vulnerable workers. Such systems are routinely employed across healthcare, retail, high security and hospitality sites among others to protect against abuse, perceived and actual physical risk and optimise workplace safety.