LON/General/TBT-LON-003

Lone Working Devices and Apps

Lone Working › General › Lone Working Devices and Apps

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Lone working devices and apps provide an additional layer of protection for workers operating without nearby supervision.
Devices include dedicated hardware with panic buttons, fall detection, GPS tracking, and automatic alert escalation.
Smartphone apps replicate many device features using the phone's sensors for fall detection and GPS location reporting.
A panic button allows the lone worker to send an immediate alert when they feel threatened or need emergency assistance.
Automatic fall detection triggers an alert if the device senses a sudden impact followed by no movement — indicating a fall.
GPS tracking allows the monitoring centre or supervisor to locate the lone worker rapidly if an alert is triggered.
Timed check-in features require the worker to confirm they are safe at set intervals — a missed check-in triggers escalation.
Man-down alerts activate if the device is held in a horizontal position for a sustained period, suggesting incapacitation.
Monitoring services provide 24/7 response to alerts, contacting emergency services and the employer's escalation contacts.
Devices and apps must be tested regularly to confirm they function correctly and that battery charge is adequate.

Rapid location	GPS tracking locates an incapacitated lone worker within metres — without it, rescuers may search for hours in the wrong location.
Automatic detection	Fall detection triggers an alert even when the worker is unconscious — this is the only protection when you cannot press the panic button.
Missed check-in	A timed check-in that is missed tells the monitoring centre something is wrong — it triggers the response before the situation worsens.

Don't

Carry your lone working device or run the app whenever working alone.
Test the device at the start of each shift to confirm it is working correctly.
Ensure the battery is fully charged before starting your lone working shift.
Set up timed check-ins at agreed intervals with your supervisor or monitoring centre.
Know how to activate the panic button and what response it will trigger.
Keep the device on your person, not in a bag or vehicle, throughout the shift.
Respond to check-in prompts promptly — a missed check-in triggers an alert.
Ensure your GPS is enabled so your location can be tracked if needed.
Confirm the monitoring centre or supervisor has your correct contact and escalation details.
Report any device malfunctions so a replacement can be issued immediately.

DON'T work alone without carrying your lone working device or running the app.
DON'T skip the daily device test — a device that does not work cannot protect you.
DON'T start a shift with a low battery — charge it fully before leaving.
DON'T ignore timed check-in prompts — missing one triggers an unnecessary emergency response.
DON'T leave the device in your vehicle or bag — keep it on your body always.
DON'T assume the panic button will work without testing it at regular intervals.
DON'T disable GPS tracking — it is the only way rescuers can find you quickly.
DON'T let your contact details become outdated — update them whenever they change.
DON'T ignore device faults — report them and get a replacement before working alone.
DON'T rely on the device alone — it supplements, not replaces, check-in procedures.

See also: Lone Working Awareness | Lone Working Risk Assessment

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