Lone working is a prevalent practice across many market sectors and though it is legal it does come with some additional risks to those that do it, simply because they don't have colleagues near them that can immediately support them when things go wrong. That's why it is crucial for businesses to have proper procedures in place to ensure the safety of lone workers.
Providing lone workers with a means to quickly alert their colleagues when they need immediate assistance is essential. This is where lone worker devices come into play, available in different forms such as an app, dedicated devices, and dual-functioning handsets that combine communication and lone worker safety features.
While all lone worker devices include an SOS button for users to raise an alarm, there are situations where workers may not have the time to press the SOS button. In such cases, having true man-down handsets is highly recommended to ensure the safety of lone workers.
We offer a range of devices with the true Man-Down feature. True Man-Down differs from fall detection, which is can be inaccurate method of providing man-down detection.
True Man Down is detected by monitoring the angle of the user/device and whether it is in motion or not. If a user is incapacitated the device will be beyond the threshold angle and a Man Down detection occurs.
To enhance this detection, a feature called Motion Reset can also be used to reset the Man Down detection if the device/user is still moving enough while in the Man Down position. This is very useful for users whose duties require them to lie down to perform inspections or other tasks.
When a True Man Down Detection event occurs, the user is presented with a warning sound and/or vibration for a period. If the user/device returns to the normal operating position or a Motion Reset occurs the pre-warning sound and/or vibration automatically stops, and an alarm is not sent.
In this blog, we highlight some suggestions to showcase the different options available to you.
Most cost effective
Atlas SOS app
If users already have an android or iOS smartphone, installing the Atlas SOS app will help to convert it into a great dual lone worker device.
The app provides users with both SOS and True Man Down alarm activation. SOS/Emergency facilities can be accessed from an on-screen button and power button press sequence. However, we’d recommend purchasing a dedicated (bluetooth) SOS keyfob (with the app) that allows users to trigger alerts without accessing the smartphone (see image).
Lowest Cost
Atlas Fob+
If you're looking for a low cost option with True-Man down, then the Atlas Fob+ is a great option.
The Atlas Fob+ is a small, lightweight, and easy to use emergency button. It offers excellent performance by utilising 2G/GPRS and 4G mobile networks.
Atlas Fob can be carried on a lanyard, key chain, or optional belt holster, putting it in easy reach when needed.
True Man Down detection using angle and motion reset is available in the Atlas Fob+ with audible pre-warnings given prior to a man down alarm activation.
Great All Round Dedicated Device
Atlas S10
This dedicated lone worker device with man-down is a great all round handset. It’s rugged, connects to 2G, 4G and WiFi, you can locate users both outdoors and indoors and has a dedicated Push-To-Talk button to enable users to collaborate easily with colleagues. It's also compact and small, not much bigger than a credit card.
- Dedicated physical SOS button & True Man Down detection
- GPS & Indoor positioning
- Alert delivery over 2G, 3G, 4G/LTE & WiFi
- IP 65 water resistance
- Optional PTT/PoC with Atlas PTT
- 3.5” Touch Screen Display
- Weight: 130g – Size: 108 x 53 x 17 mm (w/o belt holster)
Best Value Rugged Smartphone
Atlas PNC460
If you are looking for a rugged smartphone and lone worker device all in one, look no further.
The Atlas PNC460 is a combination of the Hytera PNC460 smartphone and Atlas SOS lone worker app and comes full of great features and functions.
- Android 12 Smartphone
- Dedicated physical SOS button & True Man Down detection
- GPS & Indoor positioning
- Alert delivery over 2G, 3G, 4G/LTE & WiFi
- IP 68 water resistance
- Drop tested 1.5 metres
- Optional PTT/PoC with Atlas PTT
- 50MP rear camera
- Best in class audio 3W
- 5 inch Screen
Best Options for Mobile Dead-Spots
If connectivity is an issue with users experiencing mobile dead spots on site, we would recommend either digital radio or DECT technology. Digital is quick and easy to deploy and provides one-to-many communication. Whereas DECT enables users to make calls seamlessly across site to both internal and external parties.
Digital Radio - Hytera HP785
The HP785 DMR handset comes with a large screen and AI noise cancellation providing more reliable communication with loud and clear audio, powerful 24 hour battery, remarkable portability and IP68 ruggedness for ease of use across multiple environments and industries.
- Man-down and lone worker features
- Tactile PTT, two programmable buttons
- IP68 rated
- MIL-STD-810 G standard
- AI-based noise cancellation
- 24-hour long battery life
*Other options include HP685 digital radio and HP795EX for use in ATEX areas.
DECT Ascom d83
The Ascom d83 DECT mobile device is a tough, versatile enterprise-grade DECT handset: delivering the voice quality, reliability, messaging and alarm functions demanded in today’s workplaces.
- SOS button, Alarm Cord & Man-down lone worker features
- Indoor Location
- PTT
- IP65 rated
- Central Phone book
- Long battery life
Other options include d63 & d83 EX for use in ATEX areas
Summary
Businesses need to prioritise the safety of lone workers by implementing protective measures. Utilising lone worker devices equipped with man-down sensors is a crucial step in ensuring the well-being of employees, as these devices can swiftly alert colleagues in times of need. From dedicated devices to smartphones and radios with integrated SOS buttons and man-down features, there are various options available to cater to different needs and situations.
If you would like a demonstration, pricing or more information about the handsets describe in this blog, please get in touch with us. You can find all our contact details by clicking on the contact us tab at the top right of this page.
