Dead man's handle: what is it? All the answers!

A dead man's handle is a safety feature designed to protect lone workers by automatically raising an alarm if the user becomes incapacitated due to a fall, loss of consciousness or serious accident.

When the device detects a prolonged lack of movement or a fall, an alert is automatically transmitted to a remote monitoring centre. Depending on the emergency procedures agreed with the employer, the monitoring centre can contact the employee, notify designated emergency contacts and, where necessary, alert the appropriate emergency services.

Also known as a Lone Worker Device or Lone Worker Alarm, these solutions are available in a range of formats, including smartphones, badges, dedicated devices and smart watches.

Suitable for both mobile and stationary workers, these devices are lightweight, discreet and designed to operate in a variety of environments, including demanding or high-risk settings.

Most lone worker devices also function as communication tools, enabling users to make and receive calls. This allows the monitoring centre to assess the situation, eliminate false alarms and determine the most appropriate response.

Many devices also incorporate GPS location technology, enabling the precise location of the lone worker to be identified and helping emergency services reach them as quickly as possible.

Lone worker protection solutions are available in a wide range of formats. When selecting a device, it is important to choose one that is appropriate for the employee's role and working environment.

For example, a receptionist or front-of-house employee may require a discreet solution that allows them to raise an alarm in the event of aggression or anti-social behaviour. A field engineer or technician, on the other hand, may need a more robust device that can withstand demanding environments and provide automatic fall detection.

Safety Device

A dedicated lone worker device is often worn on the belt, although it can also be carried on the arm or worn as a pendant. Compact and lightweight, these devices are designed to provide reliable fall and inactivity detection and are particularly effective when worn on the body.

Smart Watch or Wrist-Worn Device

For employees who require a more discreet solution, smart watches and wrist-worn devices offer an effective means of raising an alarm without drawing attention. They are particularly suitable for environments where employees may be exposed to aggression or anti-social behaviour and can also provide automatic fall and inactivity detection.

Lone Worker Smartphone Solutions

Many organisations choose to equip employees with a smartphone-based lone worker solution, either through an app installed on an existing device or by issuing a dedicated smartphone with integrated lone worker functionality.

App-based solutions can be cost-effective and easy to deploy, although organisations should consider the potential risks associated with users disabling or uninstalling the application. Dedicated devices with embedded lone worker functionality can provide greater assurance of continuous protection.

Like other lone worker solutions, smartphone-based devices can provide both manual and automatic alarm activation, together with location services and two-way communication.

ATEX-Certified Devices

For employees working in hazardous or potentially explosive environments, ATEX-certified lone worker devices are available. These devices are specifically designed for use in challenging conditions and typically feature reinforced construction, enhanced audio performance and functionality suited to high-noise environments.

As with other lone worker protection solutions, ATEX devices can incorporate automatic and manual alarm activation, fall detection and location services to ensure rapid assistance in an emergency.

Employer Responsibilities for Lone Worker Protection

Employers have a legal duty to protect employees who work alone and may be exposed to risks such as accidents, medical emergencies, violence or aggression. This duty applies to anyone working without direct supervision or outside the sight or hearing of colleagues.

Under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 and the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999, employers must assess the risks faced by lone workers and implement appropriate measures to ensure their safety and wellbeing.

Where a risk assessment identifies the need for additional protection, employers should consider implementing lone worker protection solutions, such as personal safety devices, emergency alarms and monitored lone worker systems. These solutions help ensure that assistance can be provided quickly and effectively in the event of an incident or emergency.

By putting appropriate measures in place, organisations can protect their employees, fulfil their duty of care obligations and provide greater reassurance to those working alone.

There is no exhaustive list of occupations covered by deadman's protection. If your employees sometimes work in isolation or on a permanent basis, you need to protect them. To start with, identify the risks they face. To do this, it's best to get in touch with professionals in the protection of isolated workers to help you with your ITP approach.