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Dispositif homme mort
published on 09/01/2026

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

Written by editor

A dead man's handle is a protective device for isolated workers.

Dead man's handle definition :

In the event of a fall, loss of consciousness or serious accident, it detects the absence of movement of an isolated employee. An alert is then automatically triggered.

A remote monitoring station then receives this alert. Depending on the assistance chain defined with the employer, the appropriate emergency services are notified. Predefined emergency contacts are also contacted if he is unable to reach the employee on his deadman device.

Also known as a lone worker alert device (DATI), it generally comes in several forms: smartphone, badge, dedicated box, watch, etc.

Adapted to mobile or sedentary workers, these safety devices are lightweight and discreet. In fact, equipped with innovative functions, they are designed for harsh environments or extreme conditions.

Deadman PTI devices (Protection des Travailleurs Isolés) function for the most part like real cell phones. They enable calls to be received or made.

The remote monitoring station can thus carry out doubt removal and confirm that it's not a false alarm. It can also define the type of assistance required by the lone worker. Also geolocated, they can locate the lone worker to save time for the emergency services.

Which deadman's handle to choose for your isolated workers?

Deadman devices come in many different forms. When choosing one, it's important to make sure it's suitable for your lone worker's activity. A receptionist will need a discreet solution to trigger an alarm in the event of incivility or aggression. A technician, on the other hand, will need a sturdy, robust solution.

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The safety box

The safety box, also known as the deadman box, is a deadman device often worn on the belt. Small and lightweight, it can be worn in a variety of ways (around the arm, as a pendant, etc.). However, it is most effective with a belt clip for effective fall or malaise detection.

The PTI watch or PTI bracelet

If you need a discreet deadman device for your isolated workers, you can opt for the PTI watch. This PTI-DATI device will be highly effective in the event of aggression or incivility. It allows you to trigger an alert without being noticed and aggravating the situation. It can also detect accidents in the absence of movement.

The dead man's phone

Are you looking to equip your employees with a smartphone, or use their existing phone as a security device? Then think about the dead man's phone also known as the PTI phone.

Two solutions are available to you. An installable application can be an option for a monthly subscription fee. Beware, however, that this solution can be uninstalled and may not guarantee you continuous protection.

Otherwise, you can turn to a PTI smartphone or a PTI phone equipped with a native app that cannot be uninstalled. Like other deadman devices, it features automatic or manual triggering of alerts. As with the safety box, a belt-worn device is preferable for accident detection.

The ATEX deadman device

The ATEX deadman device is a deadman system designed for explosive atmospheres. It is therefore more robust to withstand high heat. This DATI is also equipped with a more powerful loudspeaker and microphone compatible with loud ambient noise. It is, like most deadman detection devices, of automatic and manual triggering of alerts and basic safety functions.

Why should lone workers be equipped with a deadman's switch?

As an employer, you must provide a deadman's device for your isolated workers facing risks of accident or aggression. This therefore applies to employees working out of sight or voice range of other employees.

According to Article L4121-1 of the French Labor Code, the employer must take measures to ensure the safety of workers. He must also protect their physical and mental health. In this way, employees are quickly rescued in the event of a serious incident or emergency requiring assistance. (More information on current legislation here)

Which professionals are covered by this scheme?

There is no exhaustive list of occupations concerned by deadman devices. 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 PTI approach.