In the first of our blogs from our exhibitors, Olivia Kinney from SoloProtect explains why it is important for Lone Workers to remember the basics and share the responsibility for their own safety.
All employers have a responsibility to provide a safe working environment for their employees, including those working alone. Many organisations implement various measures to protect their lone workers, such as a lone worker device (LWD), allowing them to raise an alarm in the event of an emergency.
However, it is the employees’ responsibility to use their device consistently, and properly, to reap the benefits. Using the device over time, combined with not experiencing any volatile situations may lead to an employee to become relaxed with their device usage. Employers must stay aware of this possibility and continue to facilitate and encourage device usage. All it takes is one incident to change everything.
At SoloProtect we offer continuous support and training to all users of our lone worker devices. Whether a they’re using one of our SoloProtect ID or a SoloProtect Go devices, we encourage all lone worker to follow a few simple steps to reduce risk and maintain their safety:
The Basics: Bring your charged device with you.
Home Alone – Phone? Check. Keys? Check. Wallet? Check. Lone worker device? Check! A device left at home is no use to you. Add it to your list of must-haves as you leave for work in the morning and treat it as an indispensable part of your work uniform.
Powerless – Incorporate charging your safety device into your daily routine. Use charging your mobile phone at home or in the car as a reminder to plug your LWD in as well. You don’t want to worry about losing battery in the middle of your work day.
The Overlooked: Utilise the reassuring capabilities of your device.
Amber Alerts – Continue to be proactive about your safety at work by leaving regular ‘Amber Alerts’. This is a core function of all SoloProtect devices and is an extremely valuable tool for providing contextual information: where you are, what you’re doing, and any apparent risks. All of these can help us find you quicker in the event of a genuine emergency situation.
Device Check – Be sure that your device is ready for action. Prior to entering a situation, premise, or meeting, a quick ‘Device Check’ lets you know your battery life and mobile signal strength. The ‘Device Check’ results will assist your dynamic risk assessment and inform you whether to enter a certain situation or make an alternative choice.
The Extra: Beyond the device, keep your whereabouts evident.
Location, Location, Location – At the very least, keep others informed about your location when you’re working alone. Since risk is amplified with no one to help or raise the alarm, staying vigilant will help diminish this risk.
These simple changes in your work routine can have incredible safety enhancements and provide peace of mind to yourself and your employer.
Visit SoloProtect at the Lone Worker Safety Expo on the 2nd October. They will be in the atrium ready to welcome you and answer your questions.