The Power of SOS Alarms to Protect Lone Workers

In today's dynamic work environments, ensuring the safety of lone, remote, or high-risk workers is paramount. From working in isolated areas to potential threats of robbery or abuse, these workers face unique challenges that demand innovative safety solutions such as the SOS alarm system.

What is an SOS alarm system?

An SOS alarm system is a personal safety device designed to provide immediate assistance in times of distress or emergency. It typically comes in the form of a compact device, equipped with features such as a panic button, fall alarm and GPS tracking.

With the prevalence of smartphones, SOS alarms are now also readily available as applications that can be installed on Android and iPhone devices. This broadens the accessibility of SOS alarms - ensuring users have their safety solution right at their fingertips. Mobile apps are often used by lower-risk workers who don’t need a dedicated device.

How do you use an SOS alarm?

An SOS alarm needs to be simple and intuitive to use – even in high-pressure situations. In times of emergency, the user activates the alarm by pressing the panic button or triggering the designated emergency function on their device. The SoloProtect SOS alarm opens a call with the Monitoring Centre, where operators will quickly locate the device, verify the seriousness of the incident and send help to where it’s needed.

When should SOS alarms be used?

SOS alarms should be used in any situation where the safety of a lone or remote worker is compromised. Examples include:

1. Robbery
2. Abuse
3. Violence
4. Injury
5. An unexpected health issue such as a heart attack

Activating an SOS alarm can swiftly summon help, ensuring dangerous situations are quickly resolved with minimal impact.

Types of SOS alarms available

There are several types of SOS alarms available to cater to different needs and scenarios:

• Red Alert Alarms: Instantly notifies an Alarm Receiving Centre operator who can then request a police response or send an ambulance to where it’s needed. They can also notify designated contacts such as team managers, a health and safety team or HR.
  
  
• Man Down Alarms: Automatically triggers an alert when the device detects a sudden fall. This can be useful for people with health conditions, those who often face aggressive behaviours or people who often work at height.
  
  
• Rip Pin Alarms: Pulling the rip pin out of a device can activate a Red Alert to signal distress and summon assistance. SoloProtect’s ID Touch device can be activated via a rip pin – ideal if the device is grabbed and ripped from around the user’s neck.

How does an SOS alarm system work?

An SOS alarm system works by establishing a connection between the user's device or app and a Monitoring Centre. Upon activation, it transmits crucial information such as location data and opens a live call with the user to ensure prompt and appropriate assistance.

Why UK organisations are adopting SOS alarms

In the UK, personal SOS alarms have gained widespread recognition and adoption as an essential tool for lone and remote worker safety. With a focus on innovation and reliability, these devices offer a lifeline to workers facing risks in various industries. Whether it's a panic button integrated into a wearable fob or an emergency button on a smartphone, these devices empower individuals to take control of their safety and the freedom to perform their duties without compromising their well-being.

SOS alarms from SoloProtect

SoloProtect offers SOS Alarms for every industry, job type and risk profile. Take a look at our Lone Worker Solutions page for more information.

Useful resources:

Panic alarms: traditional vs monitored
The cost of a lone worker safety solution

Further information

If you'd like to find out more about how SoloProtect's SOS alarms can protect your workers, please contact us using the form below. 

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