Definition and Function of Lone Worker Panic Buttons

Panic buttons can be invaluable tools for those working in environments that expose them to an elevated level of risk. These alarms can trigger a discreet or screeching alarm that sends an alert to an offsite source to request assistance.

Employers are noticing an increase in workplace violence, and are seeking out resources to help protect their employees. Many cities and states are passing staff safety laws that require employers to provide lone worker panic buttons.

Definition

Lone worker panic buttons enable employees who work alone to summon assistance quickly if they feel threatened or witness inappropriate behaviour. These personal alarms also allow employees to raise the alert discreetly, ensuring that customers, patients or guests do not become suspicious of an employee seeking help.

Many US states and cities have legislation in place requiring hotel, healthcare and other businesses to provide staff with devices like lone worker panic buttons. This demonstrates that a company values the safety of its staff and will protect them from a potential threat.

A lone worker device with GPS capabilities sends the location of the employee to their assigned guardian so they can orchestrate a response to an emergency in the fastest possible way. Using mobile apps with additional features like Fall detection or automated check-ins is even more beneficial for workers who are travelling between sites or working remotely. A check in function lets the employee leave a message that provides valuable contextual information to their guardian in an emergency.

Function

Lone Worker Panic Buttons provide a simple, easy-to-use solution for employees who need immediate help. They can send an instant alert to their monitor or the Ok Alone monitoring centre when they feel threatened or unsafe.

Home healthcare nurses, retail cashiers and other staff in isolated areas face a higher risk of inappropriate or threatening behavior from customers or members of the public. Having a device that can be used to signal for help immediately, helps to prevent these types of incidents from turning dangerous.

Lone worker devices also typically include a feature that allows the user to automatically send a duress alert via GPS to management if they fail to check in. The ARC can then dispatch emergency services to their exact location. Many devices can also incorporate a man-down alarm which can be deployed automatically on the device when it detects the employee has fallen over or been knocked unconscious. Alternatively, a 'check-in' option can be activated which requires the user to leave a voice note describing their current situation.

Installation

Lone worker safety devices need to be affixed somewhere visible for employees to easily locate them and be able to trigger them in an emergency. They can be installed on counters, walls and in vehicles. They can also be worn on the body, like in a pocket or around the neck (wearable panic button).





lone worker monitoring systems The device should have fall detection and automated check-in capabilities. This is particularly important for employees who are at risk of violence and for those who work in areas where trips and falls could be hazardous.

A self-healing network that ensures no dead zones is another crucial feature. Especially for lone workers that may spend a lot of their time in areas with low or no cell signal, this is critical to their ability to call for help. Employees need to know that they won’t be left in the dark if they can’t reach their boss during an emergency.

Maintenance

Lone worker devices, when paired with a well-executed safety plan, help protect employees in the event of an incident. In some cases, they can even make the difference between a nonfatal and fatal incident.

Most lone worker panic buttons issue an alarm that alerts security personnel, management or emergency services. They are designed to do this quietly so that staff can call for help without agitating an assailant.

Hospitality workers, healthcare staff and hotel employees often face inappropriate or threatening behavior from guests, patients and customers. man down alarm Providing them with panic buttons can mitigate this risk by demonstrating that their employer cares about their safety and wellbeing.

In addition to providing their employees with a panic button, an employer should ensure that they have a well-implemented safety plan that includes a check in system and a way for employees to request help. This is especially important for employers who rely on mobile or remote workers to travel between locations.