New GPS Devices – For Managing Lone Workers

Lone working continues to present a significant hazard for many of our clients operating in remote outdoor environments. It remains one of the key risks that employers must

effectively manage.

Although mobile phone coverage across UK networks is improving, there are still extensive areas—particularly in remote regions and at higher elevations—where mobile communication cannot be relied upon. Even devices equipped with GPS may struggle to raise an alert in these locations.

While it is essential that employees communicate their intended location, expected duration of work, planned activities, and confirm their safe return at the end of the day, they must also have the capability to summon assistance should an incident occur.

Garmin has developed a new GPS device, the inReach Messenger Plus, an SOS satellite communicator with photo and voice messaging capability. This compact device connects to a smartphone via Bluetooth and enables the user to send text messages, photos, and voice communications, even in areas without mobile signal. It links to a 24/7 international emergency coordination centre for situations requiring 999 assistance and provides precise location visibility on OS maps, improving the ability of responders to locate the user. The additional benefit is that the user operates their mobile phone in the usual way – there is no need for them to have to learn how to operate the device.

Garmin lists the device at £429.99, with subscription plans ranging from a basic £7.99 per month to a premium option at £49.99 per month. 

Further information is available on the Garmin website: www.garmin.com/en-GB/p/793265/

There are of course other options available and we have frequently recommend that the SPOT GPS device (www.findmespot.com/en-us/products-services/spot-gen4) is used.

Both devices are effective methods of allowing the alarm to be raised if and when required which is most important.

Greens of Haddington Ltd are not advocating one over the other, it is purely for information that there are new options available for you to be aware of.