Discover the essential steps to finding the perfect lone worker safety solution for your needs.
Assess your needs
When choosing a lone worker safety solution, it's important to start by assessing your specific needs. Consider the nature of your work and the potential risks involved. Are your lone workers working in a high-risk environment or in a relatively safe setting? Do lone workers require periodic check-ins or advanced tech that detects impact or a lack of movement? Understanding your unique requirements can help you narrow down your options, and choose a solution that best meets your needs.
Another important aspect to consider is the number of lone workers in your organisation and scalability. If you have a large team, you may require a solution that can adapt to the requirements of a number of different working roles.
Ensure you have a lone worker policy
Before implementing a lone worker safety solution, it's crucial to have a clear and comprehensive lone worker policy in place. This policy should outline the expectations and responsibilities of both you, as the employer and your lone workers. It should also address the procedures and protocols to be followed in case of emergencies or incidents.
Having a well defined lone worker policy not only helps in ensuring the safety of your lone workers but it also provides a framework for selecting the most appropriate safety solution. It allows you to align the features and functionality of the solution with the requirements outlined in the policy.
Consider features and functionality
When evaluating different lone worker safety devices, it's important to consider their features and functionality. Look for devices that offer real-time GPS locating technology, so you can find your lone workers quickly in the event of an emergency, as well as a check-in system or reliable means of communication so your lone workers can reach out. SOS panic button features are a must and ensure that help is on the way at the touch of a button.
It's also important to consider the durability and battery life of devices. It should be able to withstand the rigours of your work environment and provide sufficient battery backup to last throughout a shift. Integration with a specialist lone worker management system such as The OWL Portal, is also recommended as it can help you manage and respond to alerts quickly and easily.
Compare training and support options
Choosing a lone worker safety solution is not just about the device itself but also about the training and support that comes with it. Ensure that the provider you choose offers comprehensive support training to both your lone workers as well as you and your management team. This training should cover the proper use of the device(s) & management portal, emergency response procedures and any other relevant topics.
You should also consider the level of support provided by the provider. Can they quickly respond to any issues or queries? A responsive and knowledgeable support team can greatly enhance the effectiveness and usability of a lone worker safety solution.
