Lone worker solutions provide vital protection and reassurance for those working alone but they can vary significantly in price. In this blog we discuss why this is the case - breaking down what affects the cost, what the price typically includes, how cost-effective these solutions are, and if they are worth the investment.
The cost of a lone worker solution is influenced by a variety of factors, making it difficult to provide a one-size-fits-all price. The main elements that impact the price include:
Type of solution: Lone worker solutions usually include an app or device (for lone workers) and management system software (for managers). The price of a lone worker solution will therefore be affected by whether an app or device is chosen and whether the solution includes the management software.
Features and functionality: Essentially the more features and functionalities, and the more comprehensive these functionalities are, the higher the price. More simplistic lone worker devices include just an SOS panic alarm and perhaps a timer session feature. In comparison lone worker devices for higher risk job roles include functionalities such as multiple ways to raise an alarm (e.g. automatically in the event of a fall), WIFI capabilities, longer battery life, satellite connectivity, ATEX ratings and more.
Number of users: The number of employees needing lone worker devices will affect the price. Solutions often have pricing tiers based on the number of users or devices required, and scaling up the system can lead to additional costs.
Subscription or license fees: Most lone worker solutions will charge a subscription or license fee for providing their service ongoing. These fees may be billed monthly or annually, and can vary depending on the number of users or the level of service required.
Hardware and setup costs: The initial cost for lone worker devices or hardware is another consideration. Some companies may charge extra for setup and installation, especially for more complex systems that require integration with other workplace systems and special configurations.
Support and maintenance: Ongoing support, maintenance, and software updates are often included in the cost (like here at LONEALERT), but some providers may offer additional premium services that come with added costs.
The cost of a LONEALERT lone worker solution includes:
Hardware/Devices: This refers to the physical devices provided to lone workers. These could be wearable devices or a mobile phone app. We charge a one-off cost for these which is paid up front when you become a customer.
Management software: This refers to the operating system used by you, as an employer, to monitor the safety of your lone workers. (Our lone worker management system is called The OWL.) The OWL is needed so that you can; manage your lone workers' devices, see their live location, be notified and respond to alarms & elapsed timers and create insightful reports.
Subscription or license fee: Included in your annual cost, to ensure a smooth service ongoing, is a license fee. This can be paid annually or monthly (if on a 12 month contract).
Training and support: At LONEALERT training and support is included within the cost of your lone worker solution. Our expert team provide comprehensive onboarding sessions where you & your lone workers can learn; how to use your devices and management software, how to raise an alarm, what to do in the even of a false alarm & more. In addition to this we can assist with any queries you have or help with any changes needed to your account at a time that suits you.
Ongoing maintenance and upgrades: Where lone worker solutions require updates or hardware maintenance to ensure optimal performance, this is included in the price of your lone worker solution.
Other providers of lone worker solutions may charge for; training & support, maintenance and upgrades, 24/7 monitoring services (where a dedicated team monitors the safety of lone workers and responds to emergencies) and installation or setup costs, so remember to consider this too.
Rather than thinking about lone worker solutions as an expense, think of them as an investment in your greatest asset, your people. Though it may be a cliched saying, it's true - "you can't put a price on life." And, without the people in your organisation, it would struggle to function, so you need to do your best to protect your staff from harm.
Whilst a lone worker solution might seem like a great expense it is also an investment in;
At LONEALERT the cheapest lone worker solution is our lone worker app. This costs from £6 per lone worker, per month. However it is vital that you consider the risks faced by your lone workers before selecting a lone worker solution as the cheapest option may not protect them from all of the risks they face. Before choosing a lone worker solution we recommend that you carry out a risk assessment to identify the risks faced by those working alone in your business. We would then advise searching for the right solution with these risks in mind.
Having a lone worker solution also;
If you need a lone worker solution for your organisation, view our range here: