When it comes to industrial operations, communication is not just about convenience. It directly impacts safety, efficiency, and trust on the floor. That idea sits at the center of a recent conversation on the Industrial Talk podcast, where Chris Chuang, Co-Founder and CEO of Relay, joined host Scott MacKenzie to talk about why communication tools need to evolve to meet real-world conditions.

Why Traditional Communication Falls Short

In many industrial environments, teams still rely on legacy radios or cell phones that were never designed for noisy, high-risk settings. Dead zones, dropped connections, and fragile hardware create gaps that workers have learned to work around, even when the stakes are high.

Chris explains that these gaps are not just frustrating, they can be dangerous. When a message does not get through or a worker cannot reach help quickly, the consequences can be serious. That reality is what pushed Relay to rethink how frontline communication should work.

Designing for the Frontline First

One of the strongest themes in the episode is intentional design. Relay was built specifically for frontline workers, not adapted from consumer devices or legacy radios.

The device is small, rugged, and built to handle drops, water, and daily wear. It supports push-to-talk communication using both Wi-Fi and cellular connectivity, helping teams stay connected across large or complex facilities. It also includes features like emergency alerts, location awareness, and real-time translation to support diverse teams working side by side.

Chris also shares why Relay builds its own hardware rather than relying on third-party devices. Owning the design process allows the team to focus on reliability and usability instead of forcing industrial workers to adapt to tools that were never meant for them.

Using AI to Support, Not Replace, People

The conversation also touches on how AI fits into the future of frontline communication. Chris is clear that the goal is not to replace human decision-making. Instead, AI can help surface important signals, identify potential safety risks, and provide insights that teams might otherwise miss.

When used thoughtfully, these tools can help supervisors respond faster, spot trends, and support workers more effectively. The focus stays on making people safer and more informed, not adding complexity for the sake of technology.

Keeping the Human Element Intact

Despite all the technology involved, one thing remains constant. Trust, clarity, and human connection still matter most. Chris emphasizes that communication tools should strengthen these relationships, not get in the way of them.

In high-pressure environments, workers need tools that feel simple and dependable. When communication works the way it should, teams can focus on the job instead of worrying about whether their message will get through.

What Comes Next

Relay has spent years building a strong foundation around reliable connectivity. With that in place, the company is continuing to expand how data and AI can support safer and more efficient operations. The long-term vision is clear: give frontline teams tools that work in real conditions and help organizations make better decisions without losing sight of the people doing the work.

Final Thoughts

This episode of Industrial Talk highlights an important shift happening across industrial operations. Communication is no longer just an operational tool. It is a core part of safety strategy and workforce support.

For leaders responsible for frontline teams, the takeaway is simple. When communication works reliably, everything else works better too.

The post How Reliable Communication Improves Safety on the Frontline appeared first on Relay.

In high-pressure, fast-moving, and multilingual work environments, delays or misunderstandings caused by language barriers can impact safety, efficiency, and customer experience. That’s where wearable translator devices play a crucial role as a powerful tool for real-time communication. 

Why Wearability Matters

When it comes to real-time communication, wearability can make a huge difference in communication flows and situation management. A wearable translator, with its hands-free design, enables workers to communicate instantly without needing to reach for a phone, launch an app, or navigate screens. This hands-free freedom translates to faster response times, fewer interruptions, and safer operations, especially in roles where multitasking is a constant requirement, providing a sense of ease and comfort.

By contrast, handheld translators and app-based solutions often require employees to pause their activities, which can be frustrating or even dangerous in time-sensitive situations. Many of the tools available on the market tend to rely exclusively on WiFi or the single cellular network their cell phone works off of, which can be unreliable in large buildings or remote sites.

That’s why wearable translation is especially beneficial for:

• Deskless teams: These may include housekeepers, maintenance workers, or security staff who are always on the move.
  
• Frontline roles: Roles such as nurses and warehouse workers, where they can’t afford delays caused by language gaps.
  
• Multi-lingual teams: Real-time translation breaks down communication barriers and helps everyone stay on the same page.
  

How Wearable Translators Work

At their core, wearable translator devices are designed to capture spoken language and instantly convert it into another language. Using a combination of real-time audio capture, AI-powered translation, and wireless connectivity, these devices enable seamless communication between individuals who don’t share a common language.

Most wearable translator devices feature:

• Multi-language support: Many support 20+ languages, covering the most commonly spoken languages in global workforces.
  
• Long battery life: To survive long shifts without constant recharging.
  
• Compact and portable form: Designed to be clipped onto uniforms, belts, or worn around the neck, thereby eliminating the need to pull out a phone or a device.
  

While general-purpose wearables, such as smartwatches with translation apps, offer occasional convenience, they aren’t necessarily suited for business use. They tend to lack the ruggedness, security, and instant responsiveness required in critical business environments.

Industries Using Wearable Translators

Wearable translator devices are transforming how industries with high-paced, multilingual workforces communicate. 

Hospitality

Hotels are bustling hubs of multilingual interaction, from international guests at the front desk to diverse housekeeping teams. Relay empowers staff with hands-free, real-time communication and translation, ensuring seamless service across languages.

At Fairfield and TownePlace Suites in Norfolk, management credits Relay with boosting both response times and team confidence. As one manager put it:

“We love our Relays here. I would 10/10 choose these over a traditional radio any day of the week.” – Sara Dahlkoetter, General Manager at Fairfield and TownePlace Suites of Norfolk

Warehousing and Manufacturing

In warehouses and manufacturing plants, productivity and safety depend on clear communication across a multilingual workforce. Misunderstood instructions for heavy machinery or logistics can cause serious delays and accidents. Relay’s hands-free, wearable translator bridges the language gap in real time, ensuring every worker understands critical commands and safety protocols to keep operations running smoothly and securely.

Healthcare

Language should never be a barrier to patient care. For nurses and caregivers working with patients who don’t speak English, Relay’s wearable language translator device enables smoother check-ins, safer responses, and better emotional support tailored to a patient’s language.

Facilities and Fieldwork

From cleaning crews in large office parks to technicians on remote job sites, facility teams rely on precise, mobile coordination. Relay’s wearable, real-time translation radio communication device supports real-world work, which is often movement-heavy, hands-on, and frequently spread across large campuses or outdoor areas.

Security and Events

Security staff and event personnel operate in dynamic environments with zero tolerance for miscommunication. With wearable translator devices, they can issue instructions, coordinate responses, or report incidents in real time, even across language barriers. The built-in push-to-talk and GPS tools further streamline responses in crowded or high-risk areas.

Relay’s Translator + Safety Capabilities

Relay’s wearable translator isn’t just a translation tool, it’s part of a broader real-time radio communication system. 

That means workers can push-to-talk, send alerts, and receive translations all through one streamlined device. And because it’s cloud-powered and optimized for enterprise, there’s no clunky setup or app dependencies for employees to navigate, making it easier to adopt. 

Relay’s wearable translator is designed for teams that need to move fast, stay connected, and feel protected, especially in industries where communication breakdowns or safety risks can’t be ignored.

At its core is TeamTranslate™, Relay’s enterprise-ready, AI-powered translation tool. With support for 30+ languages and growing, it allows frontline and deskless teams to communicate naturally in their language, with translations delivered instantly to the listener in their preferred language.

Relay’s wearable translators also serve as a crucial tool for emergency communication. Workers can trigger an instant safety alert using a discreet, built-in panic button. Alerts are sent directly to designated responders, complete with the worker’s real-time GPS location and open push-to-talk communication.

Explore more of Relay’s Worker Safety capabilities here.

Translation Only vs. Full Communication System

While most wearable language translator devices on the market act as standalone tools, Relay’s TeamTranslate™ offers a comprehensive communication system. Relay devices are built for team coordination, featuring push-to-talk functionality, group channels, and multilingual support that keeps everyone informed across different languages. 

Durability and Software Integration

Unlike many off-the-shelf translators that are delicate or designed for tourist-level use, Relay is industrial-grade, water-resistant, drop-tested, and ready for real-world frontline conditions. Additionally, it integrates seamlessly with team structures and requires minimal IT setup, ensuring a seamless and reliable user experience.

Passive Tools vs. Real-Time Alerts

Where other devices stop at passive listening, Relay keeps teams protected. If an incident occurs, a user can trigger the panic button, instantly broadcasting their location and a call for help to supervisors or emergency contacts.

In fast-moving environments where every second counts, Relay serves as a comprehensive solution that empowers teams to communicate across languages, respond to emergencies, and stay connected hands-free in real-time.

Interested in learning more about how Relay works? Book a demo to learn how Relay can transform the way your team communicates.

The post Wearable Translator Technology: How to Choose the Best Solution appeared first on Relay.

But they come in all shapes and sizes – from wearable lanyards that send a discreet alert in an emergency, to high-tech two-way communication devices that benefit your team in more ways than just promoting safety.

Choosing the right employee safety device is important, and it’s good to analyze what’s cost-effective and the most practical for your industry.

In this article, we’ll explain the types of employee safety devices on the market, what their key features are (and why they’re useful), and share the best employee safety devices to safeguard teams.

What is an Employee Safety Device?

An employee safety device is an electronic device used in business to safeguard workers and ensure a rapid response in an emergency. They’re commonly referred to as man-down alarms, lone worker alarms, panic buttons, duress alarms, or SOS panic alarms.

You get different types of employee safety devices – from one-way devices that send alerts to a designated response unit, to two-way radios with advanced worker safety technology and features.

What to Look For in an Employee Safety Device: Comparing Types of Devices

When investing in an employee safety device, it’s important to choose one that works best for your specific business, and safeguards employees against the most relevant hazards they face.

The three main types of employee safety devices are:

1. Two-in-one radios with advanced safeguarding technology (like Relay)
2. One-way panic buttons
3. Walkie-talkies

Two-in-one communications devices with built-in employee safety features

A two-in-one device is a radio (or smart radio) that operates as a communications and safety device all in one. It’s used by workers daily to communicate and deliver productive operations, with built-in, highly advanced worker safety features.

Key features include:

• How it’s worn: As a smart radio, it’s usually clipped to a worker’s uniform or lanyard, and is used at all times while on the premises
• How alerts are delivered: Panic alerts are instantly sent to a first responder (like a security guard, on-site manager, or head office). An app and dashboard enable a personalized emergency protocol to be developed to suit each business’s needs
• How the worker is identified: Each device can be registered to a certain employee, so the first responder knows whose device is activated, but a push-to-talk (PTT) function enables further dialogue
• How location is known: Smart radios have built-in live location tracking via Bluetooth beacons, enabling designated responders to see the live location of the employee in distress
• Communications: Using a combination of cellular and Wi-Fi networks, smart radios offer superior audio quality and interference-free signal across nationwide ranges
• Additional features: As an all-in-one radio for business, standard and optional extras include live language translation, broadcasting (good for sending risk alerts), phone calls, app integration, and dashboard tracking to promote business productivity

Pros and cons of using a smart radio as an employee safety device:

• Pros: It’s a two-in-one solution that’s ideal for businesses that rely on staff communicating effectively across distances. The panic button delivers fast alerts and a real-time location. Plus, the company can easily design the emergency protocol themselves via a dashboard.
• Cons: They may require a subscription (see Relay’s pricing), and the extra communication features may be overkill for employees in some industries.

One-way “panic button” employee safety device

These employee safety devices are wearable and send a one-way alert to a first response team in an emergency.

Key features include:

• How it’s worn: Typically integrated into an ID badge, lanyard, or wrist strap, and is worn at all times while on the business premises
• How alerts are delivered: Generally delivers a panic alert to an external, off-site company responsible for attending to emergency alerts, or an internal team/designated first-responder
• How the worker is identified: The device is assigned to an employee, so the first responder knows which employee’s alarm is triggered
• How location is known: Usually, the employee’s last known location at the point of activating the alarm is sent to the first responder
• Communications: Typically, none, the alert is sent to the designated person, and the emergency protocol is activated, e.g., the on-site manager locates the person and attends the scene
• Additional features: It varies per device, but usually, these one-way devices only provide the panic button, with no additional features

Pros and cons of a one-way panic button:

• Pros: The emergency response is usually handled by an external provider (rather than staff in the company), so it can provide 24/7 support. The one-way panic button is great for lone workers who don’t need to communicate with other employees instantly or daily.
• Cons: There is usually a lag in the alert, which can delay help. With no ability to communicate with the first responder, the alarm user cannot explain the issue or cancel a false alarm. The location shared also isn’t typically live.

Long- or short-range walkie-talkie

Walkie-talkies are often used as an employee safety device and a radio for business. While they can help safeguard employees, walkie-talkies have their limitations. They aren’t very advanced and rely on the employee being in range and able to communicate details of the emergency.

Key features include:

• How it’s worn: Typically clipped to a worker’s uniform or clothing
• How alerts are delivered: Push-to-talk enables the employee to speak into the device and explain the emergency to another walkie-talkie user that’s in range and on the same channel
• How the worker is identified: With no identification features, the employee in distress must communicate who they are
• How location is known: No location-tracking features, instead, walkie-talkies rely on the employee to explain their location
• Communications: As a two-way radio, walkie-talkies can communicate with other walkie-talkies that are in range and on the same channel (subject to walkie-talkie interference)
• Additional features: Walkie-talkies are designed for two-way communication only, so these devices don’t usually come with any additional add-ons or features

Pros and cons of using a walkie-talkie as an employee safety device:

• Pros: Usually free to operate (as walkie-talkies use radio frequencies) and works well for staff in a very small building (where there is unlikely to be range or signal issues).
• Cons: Signal can be unreliable, especially in large buildings or warehouses. The person in distress must communicate their issue and location, which can delay the right help from reaching them.

Best Employee Safety Device: Relay Radios With Communications & Safety/Panic Response

Relay’s radios are an excellent choice of employee safety device. As a two-in-one solution, Relay promotes faster communications during daily operations and ensures the right help reaches staff in an emergency.

Key features of Relay radios include:

Instant panic alarm

Relays panic alarms send an instant notification in less than a second – which is faster than many other devices in the industry. With fast alerts, businesses can respond quickly to emergencies, ensuring employees get the right help without delay.

Real-time location tracking

With built-in, real-time location tracking, Relay radios track the live location of the employee – not just where they were when the alert was pressed. This ensures that help can be sent to moving employees, and that help gets to the right place – right down to the coordinate.

Two-way communication

With two-way comms available, the first responder can talk to the alarm user to understand what to bring, what happened, who to call, and whether a broader alert is required to notify others of the emergency. This can save vital time and ensure the right help is delivered.

FAQs

What are Examples of Safety Devices in the Workplace?

Examples of safety devices in the workplace include PPE (Personal Protective Equipment), such as gloves, hard hats, safety goggles, shoes, or earmuffs, and digital devices, including panic buttons, duress alarms, lone worker alarms, two-way radios, and smart radios.

What is the Best Lone Worker Safety Device?

Lone worker safety devices deliver instant alerts to a first responder when an employee needs fast help. The best devices are fast, discreet, and reliable, with advanced features, like nationwide range, real-time location tracking, and live language translation.

Using a standalone panic button (like a lanyard or wrist strap) is better for industries where no two-way dialogue is needed. For example, it can be beneficial for social workers entering people’s homes alone.

When two-way communication is needed, an all-in-one device (like Relay’s radios) is better, as it minimizes the number of devices an employee has to carry around. Plus, it streamlines emergency responses with daily communications.

What Industries Can Benefit From Employee Safety Devices?

The industries that can benefit from an employee safety device with two-way communication (like Relay) include warehouses, manufacturing, retail, hospitality, large venues, education, facilities management, golf courses, healthcare, food services, or casinos.

Using Relay For Business: The Fast, All-in-One Communications Solution

Relay radios are designed for business. With fast, reliable communication and customizable emergency alerts (from silent panic buttons to sounded alarms), we offer everything your business needs to protect workers from safety risks.

Is it time to upgrade your radios and switch to Relay? Find out with a free, no-obligation demo from our team. Book a demo now.

Tight on time? No problem! Discover how our devices work in your own time via our online video center.

The post How to Choose the Right Employee Safety Devices For Your Team appeared first on Relay.

DUTCH VALLEY FOODS

Dutch Valley Foods Boosts Safety and Unifies Operations with Reliable Communication

PHOTOGRAPH © DUTCH VALLEY FOODS

PHOTOGRAPH © DUTCH VALLEY FOODS

Three Businesses, One Need for Flawless Communication

On paper, Dutch Valley Foods is a busy bulk food distributor in Myerstown, Pennsylvania. But it operates as three businesses in one: a distributor shipping pallets of dry goods to everyone from farm stands to multi-chain grocers, a dry food production facility packaging everything from soup starters to trail mix, and a logistics company with its own fleet of 75 trucks and 150 trailers delivering to 29 states up and down the East Coast. Juggling all of this requires flawless communication to keep things running smoothly and safely.

A ‘Radio Graveyard’, Poor Connectivity, and Growing Safety Concerns

As Dutch Valley Foods grew, it physically expanded, adding on to its warehouse facility almost ten times. The result? A massive, complex layout full of concrete walls and floor-to-ceiling racks that made reliable communication nearly impossible. Not only did the business face extensive dead spots and range issues with these added materials, their previous off-the-shelf walkie-talkies couldn’t withstand the industrial elements.

This left Corporate Director of Safety and Compliance, Tom Houtz, with a “radio graveyard” of broken devices. He shared, “I mean it’s a warehouse environment, so all of our floors are concrete, so you drop one of those radios and it’s instantly done. I can take you out and show you the radio graveyard and antennas are broken off and the screens are cracked and there’s corners chipped out of them, it’s awful.”

The fragile devices and unreliable connectivity created significant safety vulnerabilities. This communication gap was often illustrated when a manufacturing employee would attempt to call for assistance, but their radio call couldn’t get through. For critical situations, like a worker needing help, the official plan relied on whistles to call for aid. In a large, noisy warehouse, there was a serious concern that a whistle could go unheard. Tom realized the urgent need for a more dependable system to protect the team.

Finally, a Device That Actually Worked

Tom Houtz led the charge to find a new solution, believing that “clear, concise communication is what drives a business forward.” Given his past experiences, he was cautious about trying another radio system. “We were a little hesitant as to whether or not it would work because we’ve just been burned so many times on radios,” he says. After a Google search, he found Relay and decided to move forward.

Unlike their previous devices, Relay promised total coverage. It also included a dedicated panic button, providing a modern and direct way for employees to signal for help which was a significant improvement to their existing safety protocols. The risk paid off. “It has worked flawlessly,” Tom says.

“We have 100% coverage everywhere in our building. We’ve never had that before.”
– Tom Houtz, CSP, MSP, Corporate Director of Safety and Compliance at Dutch Valley Foods

When evaluating Relay, battery life and audio output were also important. In the past, the team needed amplifiers to properly hear their radios. Now, “they can hear the Relays better than they even could with the amplifier,” shared Tom, even over loud dust fans. The battery life has also been a stark contrast. The team has accidentally gone two or three days without charging a Relay, and found that the device just keeps working. Previously, their radios would start to fade around hour 8 of a 12-hour shift.

Amazing Results Lead to a Quick Expansion and New Standard of Operations

Dutch Valley started small, with just 10 Relay devices for the order picking team. The reaction was instant. “We were like, ‘This thing is amazing. This is working really well,’” says Tom. It didn’t take long for other teams to see the benefits, who were more than ready for a reliable solution. “They immediately said, ‘We’re ditching our old radios. Let’s do the Relay thing,’” Tom recalls. Word spread, and soon the maintenance and manufacturing departments wanted in, too. Today, Dutch Valley Foods uses over 30 Relays and counting.

This rapid expansion was fueled by improvements that have changed the game for the entire team. The panic button isn’t just a feature; it’s a source of confidence, with Tom noting that after seeing the system work, “everybody gets a big sense of security by seeing the response.” Tom has also leveraged Relay to broadcast alerts to the entire team, “We had one drill here where I used the summon feature and called every user back to a main channel and was able to communicate to every single device out there. It was perfect.”

The devices themselves are tough, and with the geofencing feature, not a single one has been lost. Ultimately, this new internal efficiency translates to a better customer experience. With clear communication, the whole operation runs smoother. When a customer arrives, the team coordinates instantly.

“What our customers see is that we’re on top of our game. They see that we’re a well-communicating organization.”

– Tom Houtz, CSP, MSP, Corporate Director of Safety and Compliance at Dutch Valley Foods

• Bulk food supplier headquartered in Myerstown, PA and founded in 1978

• 300,000+ sq ft of warehousing space featuring 5,000+ items

INDUSTRY

MANUFACTURING

OBJECTIVE

Dutch Valley Foods sought a reliable communication solution to replace their failing walkie-talkies, aiming to enhance safety, unify operations across their businesses, and improve overall efficiency.

RESULT

After implementing Relay, Dutch Valley Foods achieved full communication coverage throughout their facility, significantly enhancing safety with features like a dedicated panic button, and ultimately creating a more efficient and well-coordinated operation for their customers.

GET A DEMO

The post Dutch Valley Foods appeared first on Relay.

This guide covers the steps that matter when routine breaks down—from team coordination to recovery and communication.  

Reliable Crisis Management Strategies 

Before we go any further, let’s discuss the importance of making sure your entire team is on the same page. If even one person doesn’t know the role they’ll play, then things could go haywire during a crisis situation. Having regular redundant training and trial runs might make your team miss out on a few minutes of work, but you’ll be extremely glad you prepared if a crisis strikes. 

With that in mind, here are several proven crisis management strategies to guide your team, before, during, and after an emergency. 

Develop Contingency Plans 

Aside from training, you’ll also need to come up with contingency plans. For example, if your internet goes down due to a cyberattack, what will your team do? If you don’t know, that could present a huge problem down the line. By planning in advance, though, you could ensure that locked in hot spots are available to instantly take over, if needed. Properly implementing strategic crisis management in advance means not having to call all your company’s shareholders due to an extensive internet outage.   

Conduct Risk Assessments 

Conducting risk assessments is a good way to uncover weaknesses that could lead to bigger problems. Let’s go back to the cyberattack example. During a routine risk assessment, you might find that employees aren’t trained to recognize social engineering tactics like phishing emails. That’s a huge gap which could give bad players access to your internal systems. In this event, a basic training program can serve as a simple but powerful element of your crisis management strategy, helping to prevent a security breach before it ever happens.  

Identify Early Warning Signs

It’s easy to become complacent when you see the same things at work on a daily basis. Unfortunately, this means your crisis management strategies could begin to slip. Instead, get into the habit of looking around your factory for any potential vulnerabilities. By collecting and analyzing data regarding these vulnerabilities, you’ll be in a much better position to ward off having to utilize your crisis management techniques. 

Contain the Damage 

Once you become aware that your crisis management strategies are needed, it’s critical to protect your company’s people and assets. Let’s say that a tornado is headed to your facility and expected to hit within the next 10 minutes. By preparing in advance for this with trial runs, your team should be in a good position to quickly reach either an interior room or a hallway on the first floor. Take care not to incite the more excitable members of your team. Instead, use a calm and rational yet firm tone when you give the evacuation order. 

Appoint a Crisis Management Team 

Getting your team into a safe position is only one step of the process. Having a crisis management team in place will give your employees someone to connect with if they become alarmed, start to forget their crisis preparation, etc. Ensure that everyone has a smart radio such as RelayX to stay in touch. Not only will these smart radios keep working when phone lines have gone dead, but they also feature safety alerts and language translation capabilities. In other words, they’ll make the evacuation process much smoother. 

Communicate Clearly with the Outside World

Regardless of the type of emergency, you’ll most likely need to share the news with people who are outside of your facility. A prime example comes in the aftermath of a tornado or hurricane that blew part of the roof off your factory. You’ll want to get ahead of the situation by announcing the problem yourself. That way, you can also take control of the narrative to protect your company’s reputation. Always remember, someone is going to break the news. Therefore, it’s almost always better if your business, following factual review and legal approval, is the one to do so. 

Initiate the Recovery Process 

Once the immediate crisis has passed, the recovery phase begins. During this time, focus on rebuilding operations while reinforcing public trust. Let’s say a hurricane causes major damage to your area and temporarily shuts down your facility.

Even if the situation wasn’t preventable, how you respond can shape long-term perception. Helping affected employees with emergency support, offering paid off time during recovery, or donating supplies locally not only shows leadership, it also signals your commitment to your team and community. These actions, rooted in compassion, also serve to protect and strengthen your company’s reputation.

Perform a Post-Crisis Assessment 

Anytime an emergency arises, be sure to conduct a post-crisis assessment once the danger passes. Imagine that there are four different entry points in your warehouse, and three of them are supposed to be locked from the outside at all times. Somehow, though, an unauthorized individual gained access through one of these doors. 

The first thing you’ll need to do during your post-crisis assessment is figure out how they did it. Is there a problem with the lock? Did someone leave the door propped open? Was your door lock easy to pick? Whatever you discover needs to be included in your post-crisis assessment. Of course, you’ll also want to adapt your techniques so that it can never happen again. 

Adapt Based on Lessons Learned 

Your crisis management strategies are likely to evolve based on what you learn from an actual emergency. Therefore, you should immediately update your strategies to include new techniques for handling a crisis. If one part of your plan doesn’t work as well as expected, as in the above example, you should reevaluate and come up with a better plan. 

The reality is that as much as we want to always make the right decisions, we’re also human and will make mistakes from time to time. Get ahead of your mistakes in the press and be prepared to show how you’ve adjusted your crisis management strategies going forward. 

Five Considerations for Crisis Management Strategies 

Before you release a crisis management plan, it’s vital to take the time to carefully consider how it will affect your company post-crisis. Because at the end of the day, reputation management is one of the most important things your business can undertake. 

As you build or refine your crisis management plan, keep these five considerations in mind to guide smart decision-making during emergencies and throughout the entire recovery process. 

1. Leadership 

Choosing your crisis management team requires you to pick out strong leaders that have the ability to calmly provide guidance when things go haywire. Select leaders that others trust and listen to closely. 

2. Reputation 

Your chosen crisis management team must also fully understand the importance of protecting your company’s reputation. Ensure that they’re ready to quickly issue a transparent statement to the press. 

3. Ethical Standards 

Lapses in proper and ethical decision-making could become a news story in the aftermath of a crisis. Instead, think through your crisis management plan to ensure it has been built ethically, and with as much compassion as possible. 

4. Flexibility 

Sometimes, no matter how much work you’ve put into your crisis management strategies, it becomes abundantly clear during an emergency that your plan isn’t working. While some people will insist on following the plan no matter what, effective leaders know when to pivot. For instance, what if part of your plan includes meeting in an area that is currently flooded? The ability to quickly assess the situation and adjust your response is a critical part of leading through a crisis.  

5. Communication   

Maintaining clear, consistent communication throughout the crisis – and afterwards with your employees – provides a proven way to get through a bad situation as a team. For staying in touch with your employees, we suggest utilizing smart radios. Unlike two-way radios that have range limitations, smart radios like Relay makes it easy to talk via multiple nationwide 4G LTE networks and WiFi. Therefore, they’re a much more reliable way to communicate, which is exactly what you need in a crisis situation. 

Crisis Management Strategies That Work 

The previously listed techniques for crisis management are the best way to come out the other side with your reputation, operations, and team intact. If you don’t currently have a crisis plan, consider working on one today. After all, you don’t want to get caught in a serious emergency without having previously thought it through. Are you looking for a way to improve your team’s communication skills? Whether you turn to us for better crisis management or to improve your team’s communication abilities altogether, Relay can make life significantly easier. Contact us today to receive a free demo!

The post Crisis Management Strategies to Protect Your Team, Operations, and Reputation appeared first on Relay.

Beyond having an emergency plan in place, teams need to be able to communicate with one another quickly and know where an incident has happened. Many paging and overhead systems only pass along information one-way and broadcasting messages to everyone within earshot can escalate high-stress situations. You may also find it difficult to get in contact with the right people using radios and cell phones.

Many of our existing customers chose Relay as their two-way communication tool because of Relay’s additional safety features. To enable our customers to handle emergency situations as quickly and efficiently as possible, in a way that works best for their specific business needs, we upgraded our incident response capabilities. 

What are Relay’s Advanced Incident Response Capabilities?

Our advanced incident response capabilities allow you to further customize who needs to be aware of emergency situations and how they can respond. Now you’ll be able to:

• Dispatch incident alerts directly from the Relay dashboard or mobile app*
• Create and name custom codes based on your phrasing preference*
• Customize responder roles by choosing who receives an alert about the incident versus those who receive an alert and can communicate in the incident channel
• Configure emails that are automatically sent when incidents are created 

*Incident Dispatch and Custom Phrases are only available for certain plans

These additional capabilities are especially useful for properties with sophisticated security teams, as well as those within the education or healthcare industries.

By setting up these workflows BEFORE an incident takes place, employees will be better prepared to deal with emergency situations. 

Setting Up Relay’s Incident Workflows

Incident workflows are triggered by voice on Relay devices or may be dispatched from the app or dashboard.

To set up incident workflows in your Relay dashboard, navigate to the Incident Setup page and then follow the steps below.

1. Click Configure Incident Phrase or Incident Dispatch* 
2. Type in a custom phrase or choose from the preset codes provided.* 
3. Select who you would like to have the ability to trigger each workflow.
4. Select your responders

Following setup, you’ll be able to view all your workflows in the dashboard.

*Incident Dispatch and Custom Phrases are only available for certain plans

How to Initiate an Incident Phrase Workflow

To initiate an incident, hold the assistant button and say the code name assigned to that workflow. If you would like to add additional context to the incident, say that after the code word, e.g. “Code Red fire in the kitchen”.

Any assigned responders to that code will hear the notification “Code Red fire in the kitchen by Scott. Tap the talk button to continue”. A communications channel will then be created with the person who triggered the incident and any responders. 

Dash (web) or Relay App users may see the Incident Details, including timestamps for who triggered the incident and responded, all messages transcribed and any location changes for the person who triggered the incident. This can be referenced after the fact in the incident history as well. Message history and transcriptions are only available for 7 days.

See Relay’s Advanced Incident Response Capabilities in Action

Here’s a demo of Relay’s advanced incident response capabilities from our recent webinar.

Click here to learn more about Relay Incidents.

The post Advanced Incident Response: Custom Workflows With Relay appeared first on Relay.

This is particularly exacerbated in high-risk environments like construction sites. These are worksites where coordination among diverse teams and clear communication are essential. Establishing clear communication protocols and creating an environment where everyone understands why these measures are necessary is crucial to foster a safer and more productive work environment.

Here are 8 tips for improving job site communication for safer, more efficient work. 

1. Start with Clear Daily Briefings

One of the simplest and most effective ways to improve job site communication is to begin each day with a structured team briefing. These short check-ins not only help set the scene for the day, but also ensure everyone is prepared, focused, and aligned on daily goals, task assignments, and potential hazards before work begins.

There are multiple ways to conduct daily briefings, such as a whiteboard, a morning huddle, or mobile communication tools. The objective for these sessions is the same: set expectations clearly and allow everyone to ask questions or raise concerns.

Some tips to bear in mind when conducting daily briefings include: 

• Keep it short: No one wants a 45-minute lecture before their shift; try to stick to key priorities.
• Make it actionable: Outline what needs to happen, by whom, and when.
• Aim for Inclusivity: Make sure everyone, from new hires to seasoned pros, has access to the same information. Consider using translator devices if your team faces language barriers to prevent information from being misunderstood. 

Even five focused minutes each morning can prevent a day’s worth of miscommunication, confusion, or delays, especially when teams are spread across a large, fast-moving site.

2. Standardize Terminology Across Teams

Even minor miscommunications can lead to delays, rework, or safety risks on a busy job site, especially when teams comprise people from different backgrounds or language groups. That’s why creating a shared language everyone understands across teams is essential. 

Establish consistent use of:

• Codes: Use predefined callouts for equipment moves, hazard alerts, or deliveries (e.g., “Code Red” for evacuation). 
• Hand signals: Particularly useful in noisy environments or when line-of-sight is limited.
• Verbal callouts: Make sure phrases like “clear,” “all stop,” or “stand by” mean the same thing to everyone. 

Here’s a full list of common walkie talkie lingo, codes, and phrases to keep your team aligned.

You can also create visual cheat sheets or bilingual signage and post them in break areas, tool trailers, and entry points to help reinforce terminology and ensure everyone is on the same page.

3. Invest in Modern Communication Tools

When workers operate heavy machinery, climb scaffolding, or handle sensitive equipment, fumbling with a bulky radio just isn’t inconvenient; it can be dangerous too. In these tough or high-stakes environments, workers need a tool that can keep up with the speed of operations and is reliable when matters get urgent.

Traditional walkie-talkies have long been a job site staple, but they come with drawbacks like channel congestion, short range, and poor audio quality. Modern push-to-talk devices offer a smarter, more streamlined alternative with:

• Language translation in 30+ languages
• Noise-canceling audio built for loud environments
• Nationwide coverage via LTE + WiFi
• Real-time GPS and location tracking
• All-day battery life and extreme durability

Watch how Recycle Management is overcoming language barriers and streamlining operations with Relay.

4. Establish Protocols for Emergencies and Delays

How teams communicate on the job site can determine the outcome when emergencies strike or timelines shift. Clear, pre-established protocols for incidents and delays ensure that everyone knows exactly who to contact, how to respond, and what to do next without hesitation.

Here’s how to build strong communication protocols into your job site:

• Designate point people for various scenarios (e.g., safety officer for injuries, site manager for supply delays).
• Map out who should contact whom in different situations, including backups.
• Practice emergency drills and communication walk-throughs regularly to reinforce response behaviors.

Most importantly, integrate your communication plans into the site safety strategy, not as an afterthought. When everyone is trained to respond clearly and consistently, confusion and risk in high-pressure situations are reduced. 

👉 Check out this blog post for 10 ways to use Relay during emergency evacuations. 

5. Bridge the Gap Between Field and Office Teams

One of the most common (and costly) communication breakdowns on job sites happens between field crews and office staff. When project managers, coordinators, or clients don’t have real-time visibility into what’s happening on-site, decisions get delayed, approvals lag, and misunderstandings multiply.

To avoid this disconnect:

• Use real-time reporting tools to share updates, progress photos, and incident reports directly from the field.
• Implement mobile-friendly task tracking apps so everyone sees the same to-do list, deadlines, and changes, regardless of location. 
• Create fast feedback loops between foremen and project managers to flag scope changes, material shortages, or schedule shifts quickly.

6. Encourage Two-Way Feedback—Not Just Top-Down

Job site communication shouldn’t flow in only one direction. When feedback travels only from the top down, critical insights from the field often get lost, along with opportunities to improve safety, efficiency, and morale.

Encouraging two-way communication can look like: 

• Giving workers a voice to report hazards, equipment issues, or inefficiencies without fear of being ignored or penalized
• Scheduling regular team check-ins, not just for instruction but for listening
• Offering anonymous channels (like suggestion boxes or digital forms) for honest feedback on workflows, communication tools, or team dynamics

This fosters a culture of mutual respect and continuous improvement and gives leadership a clearer picture of what’s working and what’s not.

Get tips for improving communication within your industrial team below. 

7. Minimize Cross-Talk and Channel Overload

Too many voices on the same channel can turn even the best communication tools into noise. When every team, trade, or task group uses the same line, critical updates get lost in the chaos, which can lead to mistakes, delays, or even accidents.

To keep communication clear and focused:

• Assign dedicated channels based on roles, locations, or tasks (e.g., one for equipment operators, another for supervisors).
• Encourage radio etiquette: speak clearly, keep messages concise, and only use the channel when necessary.
• Limit non-essential chatter, especially during high-risk or high-output periods.

8. Train for Communication, Not Just Tools

Handing out a radio isn’t the same as teaching someone how to communicate effectively on a job site. Just like safety procedures or equipment handling, communication must be trained, not assumed.

Make effective communication part of your standard onboarding and ongoing training by:

• Incorporating communication protocols into safety briefings and toolbox talks
• Explaining the “why” behind things like radio etiquette, escalation paths, or shared terminology
• Reinforcing that clear, respectful communication is part of the job, not optional
• Get it right from the start by training staff to use new communication technology effectively

Clear communication is one of the most powerful tools on any job site. It keeps teams aligned, reduces safety risks, and ensures everyone works toward the same goals. Whether managing a small crew or coordinating across multiple locations, building strong communication habits and using the right tools can make all the difference in how smoothly and safely your projects run.

Relay helps teams stay connected with hands-free communication, real-time location tracking, and seamless group coordination, built for the demands of modern job sites. Check out the impact Relay is having on frontline teams within industrial, hospitality, healthcare, and other industries. 

The post 8 Ways to Improve Job Site Communication for Safer, More Efficient Work appeared first on Relay.

This isn’t just a stamp of approval—it’s a critical safeguard. In this blog, we’ll explain what this certification means and why investing in a Class 1 Division 2 device should be non-negotiable for any team operating in hazardous locations.

What Does “Class 1 Division 2” Mean?

This classification comes from NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) and OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) standards. It’s used to designate equipment that is safe to use in hazardous locations—areas where flammable gases or combustible dusts, fibers, and flyings might be present.

Here’s the breakdown:

• Class I / II / III – This refers to flammable gases and combustible dusts, fibers, and flyings. Class I / II / III environments are commonly found in industries like oil and gas, chemical processing, refineries, paint shops, and more.
• Division 2 – This means that hazardous materials are not present during normal operations, but may be present under abnormal conditions—like a leak, a maintenance event, or a system failure.

Is RelayX HazLoc Intrinsically Safe?

RelayX HazLoc is a certified Class 1 Division 2 device. This means these devices are deemed safe for hazardous exposures of flammable gases, combustible dust, and ignitable fibers or flyings that are not likely to occur during normal operations, but may occur for short periods of time. 

To get this certification, RelayX HazLoc devices went through rigorous third-party testing and will continue to face audits to maintain the Class 1 Division 2 certification. 

Why the Class 1 Division 2 Certification Matters

If your team works in or around potentially explosive atmospheres, this certification should be on your radar. Here’s why:

1. Protects Your People

Accidents in hazardous environments can be catastrophic. Using certified devices like RelayX HazLoc minimizes the risk of ignition from everyday communication tools. Your team can focus on their job without worrying that their equipment could put them in danger.

2. Compliance with Industry Regulations

OSHA and other regulatory bodies require Class 1 Division 2 equipment in certain classified areas. Using non-compliant devices can lead to fines, shutdowns, and serious liability issues. With RelayX HazLoc, you’re working with a device that’s already cleared for these environments.

3. No Need for Workarounds

Many teams are forced to leave traditional communication tools behind when entering hazardous zones. That leads to delays, missed messages, and unsafe improvisation. Relay lets your team communicate in real time—even in Class I Div 2 environments—without compromising safety.

4. Built for Harsh Conditions

RelayX HazLoc wasn’t just built to pass a certification—it was designed from the ground up for rugged, industrial use. On top of its Class I Div 2 rating, RelayX HazLoc is dustproof, water-resistant, drop-tested, and equipped with powerful audio for clear communication in noisy environments.

Safety Without Sacrificing Performance

With RelayX HazLoc, you don’t have to trade safety for functionality. You get:

• MIL-STD-810H certified durability rating
• IP66/IP68 water resistance
• Redundant nationwide range via cellular and Wi-Fi connectivity
• Dual 2.0W speakers for 110dB SPL peak loudness and advanced noise cancellation
• All-day battery life with a robust 2900 mAh battery
• Real-time translation in 30+ languages
• Up to 1,000 channels for one-on-one or team communication
• Real-time location tracking and message transcription
• 3-year limited warranty with no-cost upgrades on eligible plans
• And of course—Class 1 Div 2 certified!

If you’re operating in hazardous industrial environments, using uncertified devices isn’t just risky—it’s unnecessary. With RelayX HazLoc, you get the performance you need without compromising safety. Get pricing for Relay’s Class 1 Division 2 certified devices. 

The post RelayX HazLoc: Certified Class 1 Division 2 appeared first on Relay.

In this guide, we’ll break down what Class 1 Division 2 means, explain why specialized equipment (particularly two-way radios) is crucial in these environments, and help you understand how to select the right communication tools for your team’s safety and efficiency.

What is a Class 1 Division 2 Hazardous Location?

A Class 1 Division 2 hazardous location is an area where flammable gases, vapors, or liquids might be present under abnormal conditions, but aren’t likely to exist during normal operations. Think of it as a “buffer zone” that represents a lower risk level than Division 1 areas but still requires special precautions and properly rated equipment.

These locations are typically found in industries like:

• Oil and gas facilities
• Chemical manufacturing plants
• Pharmaceutical production
• Fuel storage areas
• Processing facilities
• Mining operations

How Are Hazardous Locations Classified?

The classification system used in North America is defined by the National Electric Code (NEC) and categorizes hazardous areas based on three key factors:

Class – Defines the type of hazardous substance present:

• Class 1: Flammable gases, vapors, or liquids
• Class 2: Combustible dusts
• Class 3: Ignitable fibers or flyings

Division – Indicates how likely hazardous materials are to be present:

• Division 1: Present during normal operations or frequently during maintenance
• Division 2: Present only under abnormal conditions (equipment failure, leaks, etc.)

Group – Categorizes materials based on their properties and ignition characteristics, such as Groups A, B, C, and D for various gases and vapors.

Class 1 Division 1 vs. Division 2: What’s the Difference?

Understanding the key differences between Class 1 Division 1 and Division 2 is crucial for proper equipment selection:

Here’s a helpful tip: Equipment approved for Division 1 can be used in Division 2 locations of the same class and group. However, equipment approved only for Division 2 cannot be used in Division 1 locations.

Why Two-Way Radios Need Special Certification for Hazardous Locations

In environments where a single spark could trigger a catastrophic event, standard electronic devices—including ordinary two-way radios—can pose serious risks. That’s why communication equipment used in Class 1 Division 2 areas must be specially designed and certified.

The risks of using standard radios in hazardous locations include:

• Electrical sparks from circuits, switches, or battery connections
• Heat generation from normal operation
• Static electricity from device housings
• Potential for short circuits or electrical faults

Even a seemingly minor issue like a battery short or a static discharge could provide enough energy to ignite flammable gases or vapors in the right concentration.

Features of Class 1 Div 2 Certified Radios

Two-way radios certified for Class 1 Division 2 environments are engineered with several special features:

Non-incendive circuits – Electrical components designed to prevent sparks or excessive heat during normal operation and certain fault conditions.

Specialized housings – Constructed from materials that resist static buildup and provide additional protection against impact damage.

Battery safety – Specially designed power sources that limit energy output and prevent short circuits.

Temperature control – Components engineered to keep surface temperatures below ignition thresholds.

IP ratings – Many Class 1 Div 2 radios also feature robust environmental protection (often IP67 or IP68) against dust and water.

Clear certification markings – Visible labels showing the appropriate ratings for hazardous locations.

The Importance of Certified Accessories

One crucial aspect of hazardous location safety that’s often overlooked is accessory compatibility. When using two-way radios in Class 1 Division 2 environments, it’s essential to understand that:

• The certification applies to the complete system, including all accessories
• Only manufacturer-certified batteries should be used
• Aftermarket accessories, even if marketed as “intrinsically safe,” will void the certification
• Batteries should never be charged within the hazardous location
• Speaker mics, headsets, and earpieces must carry the same certification as the radio

Using uncertified accessories with a certified radio isn’t just about breaking rules—it creates a serious safety risk and potential liability. It’s like having a high-security building with state-of-the-art locks on every door except one.

Industry Applications: Where Class 1 Div 2 Radios Are Essential

Oil and Gas Industry

In oil and gas facilities, Class 1 Division 2 areas typically include areas surrounding wellheads, tank farms, loading/unloading stations, and perimeters of processing areas. Communication is critical in these environments for both operational efficiency and emergency response.

Chemical Manufacturing

Chemical plants often have extensive Class 1 Division 2 areas, including storage areas for flammable chemicals, areas surrounding reaction vessels, and loading docks where chemicals are transferred.

Pharmaceutical Production

In pharmaceutical manufacturing, Class 1 Division 2 areas may include solvent storage areas, areas where alcohol-based products are processed, and locations where flammable cleaning agents are used.

Mining Operations

Mining operations, particularly coal mines, may designate areas as Class 1 Division 2 where methane gas might be present in abnormal conditions, fuel storage is located, or ventilated areas adjacent to higher-risk locations.

Best Practices for Using Radios in Hazardous Locations

Maintaining safety in Class 1 Division 2 environments requires ongoing attention to best practices:

Proper Training

All personnel should receive training on:

• Recognition of hazardous area classifications
• Understanding of equipment ratings and limitations
• Proper use and maintenance of two-way radios
• Emergency procedures
• Reporting potential hazards or equipment issues

Regular Inspections

A robust inspection program should include:

• Verification that equipment carries proper certification
• Checking for physical damage that might compromise safety
• Ensuring all markings and labels remain legible
• Confirming no unauthorized accessories are in use

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using uncertified equipment or accessories
• Charging batteries within the hazardous location
• Modifying or repairing equipment without proper authorization
• Failing to maintain documentation of equipment certifications

FAQs About Class 1 Div 2 Communication Equipment

Does Class 1 Div 2 require explosion-proof equipment?

No, explosion-proof equipment (designed for Division 1) is not specifically required in Division 2 locations. Non-incendive equipment is generally acceptable, though explosion-proof or intrinsically safe equipment can also be used.

What happens if I use the wrong radio in a hazardous location?

Using equipment without proper certification creates serious safety risks and potential liability. In the event of an incident, insurance coverage may be voided, and organizations may face regulatory penalties and legal liability.

Can I use standard accessories with my certified radio?

No. Only accessories specifically certified with the radio can be used without voiding the certification. Using standard or aftermarket accessories will compromise the safety rating of the entire system.

What’s the difference between “intrinsically safe” and “non-incendive”?

Intrinsically safe equipment is designed to limit electrical and thermal energy to levels that cannot cause ignition, even under fault conditions. Non-incendive equipment is designed to be safe under normal operating conditions but may not be under fault conditions. Intrinsically safe is suitable for both Division 1 and 2, while non-incendive is only for Division 2.

How often should I replace my hazardous location radio?

Replace your radio if it shows any signs of physical damage, if the certification markings become illegible, or according to the manufacturer’s recommended lifecycle. Always follow your organization’s equipment replacement policies.

Choosing the Right Two-Way Radio for Hazardous Environments

Selecting appropriate communication equipment for Class 1 Division 2 environments requires careful consideration of several factors:

1. Certification Level: Ensure the radio is certified for the specific class, division, and groups present in your environment.
   
2. Radio Features: Consider functionality needs like range, battery life, audio quality, and available channels.
   
3. Durability: Look for additional ratings like IP67/IP68 for dust and water protection, especially in harsh industrial environments.
   
4. Support and Warranty: Choose manufacturers that provide strong support for their hazardous location products.
   

How Relay’s Radios Improve Safety in Hazardous Locations

Our Class 1 Division 2 certified two-way radios: RelayX HazLoc, are specifically engineered to provide reliable communication without compromising safety in hazardous environments. With features like non-incendive circuits, specialized housing materials, and comprehensive certification, our radios enable teams to communicate effectively while maintaining compliance with safety standards.

Beyond basic communication, our radios offer:

• MIL-STD-810H certified durability rating
• IP66/IP68 water resistance
• Redundant nationwide range via cellular and Wi-Fi connectivity
• Dual 2.0W speakers for 110dB loudness and advanced noise cancellation
• All-day battery life with a robust 2900 mAh battery
• Real-time translation in 30+ languages
• Up to 1,000 channels for one-on-one or team communication
• Real-time location tracking and message transcription
• 3-year limited warranty with no-cost upgrades on eligible plans
• And of course—Class 1 Div 2 certified!

Clear communication is a necessary part of every workplace, especially in hazardous locations where coordination can be the difference between safety and disaster.

Ready to discover if our Class 1 Division 2 certified radios are right for your business? Book a one-on-one demo today – or check out our customer stories to see how our communication solutions have improved safety and efficiency for businesses nationwide.

The post Class 1 Division 2 Radios: Complete Guide to Hazardous Location Communications appeared first on Relay.

Not all man down alarms are the same. Some come in the form of wearable lanyards or bracelets, more commonly used by professions such as teachers or healthcare workers. Others are built into workplace communication devices, like walkie talkies and smart radios.

Smart radios are frequently used in the workplace to aid communication, yet have the added benefit of helping keep workers safe. Used in many industries – from construction to hospitality – these devices offer benefits to employers and their staff.

In this article, we’ll explain how man down alarms work, who can benefit from a lone worker device, and the best lone worker safety devices to use in a workplace.

What is a Man Down Alarm?

Man down alarms (also known as lone worker devices) are designed for people who work alone to use in an emergency to get help. Alarms typically have a panic button that can be pressed to immediately get the attention of a responder.

Man down alarms come in different formats, including:

• Wearable devices (e.g. a lanyard or wrist strap)
• Built into communication technology (e.g. a walkie talkie or smart radio)

Smart radios (like Relay) are used in several industries, including hospitality, construction, manufacturing, maintenance, education, and healthcare. These devices are primarily used to facilitate team communication and increase worker productivity, but they can also be used to promote better workplace safety.

Pros of a Man Down Alarm For Businesses

Workplaces and employees can certainly benefit from adopting personal safety devices for lone workers. Key benefits include:

Improved safety measures for lone workers

The primary benefit of a man down alarm is that it enables employees to get help quickly if there’s an emergency. This is particularly beneficial for lone workers, as it enables them to call for help when no one is around. This can improve the safety measures of a workplace and support the implementation of safety mandates.

Reduced risk of fatal accidents

A panic button or man down alarm won’t necessarily reduce the risks of accidents in the workplace, but it can help ensure medical assistance reaches a worker quickly. This can help keep workers safe and, in some cases, may reduce the risk of workplace accidents becoming serious or leading to a fatality.

For lone workers, the risk of serious injury or fatality in the workplace can be particularly high. This may be due to how they are less likely to receive fast help in an emergency if they are on their own.

Studies find that lone workers can be less likely to practice safe behaviors due to having to self-observe and self-manage. With no one around to spot or challenge poor or unsafe practices, they can be more at risk of injury.

Rapid response in an emergency

Man down alarms aren’t just designed to be used by lone workers. A panic button is suitable for most situations where staff need fast help or to report an emergency.

For example, if a customer displays threatening behavior, a panic button can be used to discreetly request help, which can help diffuse the situation and prevent a workplace assault.

Or if a fire breaks out in the workplace, panic buttons can be used by staff who are not close to a fire alarm to alert others. This can enable faster evacuation for staff and/or customers, which can potentially save lives.

Staff feel safer in the workplace

Employees must be kept as safe as possible in the workplace in line with OSHA guidelines, but it’s also important for staff to feel like their employer cares about their safety. A lone worker device can help staff feel safer.

An Ansell survey highlighted that 94% of workers want their employers to prioritize their physical safety. If your workforce doesn’t feel safe due to a lack of safety measures, they may leave to find an employer who does more.

Accidents in the workplace – even minor ones – can also impact employees. It can lead to low staff morale, which can lead to more accidents at work, with reports of 64% more accidents involving disengaged workers vs engaged workers.

Who Can Benefit From a Lone Worker Monitoring System?

In 2023, the US Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that 5,283 fatal workplace injuries were recorded, with a worker dying every 99 minutes from a work-related injury. The construction industry saw the most fatalities, along with warehousing, waste management, retail, and cleaning/maintenance industries.

Injuries are mostly caused by falls, slips, trips, and transportation accidents. In the retail sector, approximately 30% of fatalities were as a result of a homicide.

Based on this information, the types of workers that can benefit from carrying a man down alarm (or other lone worker monitoring device, like Relay) include:

• Construction workers (including roofers, builders, and surveyors)
• Retail and hospitality staff (including hotels, venues, and large stores)
• Maintenance, machinery, and facilities workers
• Warehouse workers
• Airport staff
• Security personnel
• Delivery drivers
• Window cleaners

How Does a Man Down Radio Work?

There’s a reason many businesses are choosing radios with man down functionalities over traditional man down alarms. Not only are they combining technologies into a device their workers already rely on, they want the ability to communicate with their lone working employees after an incident has occurred to learn more about the situation.

While different man down radios may vary in how you operate them, man down radios typically work as follows. Once activated, it sends an alarm signal to Relay devices designated as emergency responders, sharing the employee’s name and accurate location in the process. The responder can talk to the worker (via push to talk) to understand the issue and send the right help.

Read more about how Relay can be leveraged in man down scenarios:

Send instant panic alert to responders

After pressing the central push-to-talk button on the radio 5+ times, an alert is sent to a designated responder in real-time. This could be a manager on-site/nearby or an identified person who handles panic alerts, like a security guard.

Provides accurate location

Obtaining the worker’s location quickly is crucial. Relay contains built-in GPS and Bluetooth beacon tracking technology. This enables responders to pinpoint the location of a worker once the panic button has been activated.

Enables two-way talk

Relay’s communication device combines a panic alert system with two-way communication. This means both parties can communicate with each other in real time to send or receive the best help.

What are the Best Lone Worker Safety Devices? Here’s Why You Should Consider Relay

At Relay, our smart radios offer an all-in-one solution to enhancing workplace safety and improving team communications, particularly for businesses with lone workers. Built with worker safety in mind, our smart radios provide:

• Instant panic alerts: Our devices send alerts in less than a second, making Relay one of the fastest panic alarms available
• Two-way communication: Unlike other man down alarms, Relay combines two-way communications and panic buttons in one device to enable better responses
• Location tracking: Relay offers real-time location tracking at any time, allowing you to quickly identify worker locations indoors or outdoors
• Reliable connectivity: We offer unparalleled reliability, with triple cell carrier connectivity and redundancy with WiFi
• Compliance: We comply with legislation in multiple regions, as well as brand mandates, to help your business meet requirements
• Live language translation: A built-in live language translation feature reduces language barriers and enables clear communication in critical situations
• On the go visibility: Our Relay app enables managers to identify the location and communicate with employees nationwide, whether there’s an emergency or not

Discover how Relay can benefit your business and improve worker safety for your employees at your own pace in our on-demand video demo center.

FAQs

What is Classed as Lone Working?

A lone worker in the US is generally defined as someone who works:

• In an isolated area
• In a confined space
• In a remote location
• Without direct supervision
• Without close contact with other employees
• With customers, but no other employees or managers
• Off-peak hours

Are Walkie Talkies Reliable in an Emergency?

Walkie-talkies enable staff to call for help or share their location in an emergency. However, walkie-talkies are not necessarily reliable.

Walkie talkies are renowned for their poor and intermittent signal. In an emergency, clear communication is key to securing the right help. If a responder can’t understand or hear the SOS properly, this can leave a worker at serious risk.

Plus, in some cases, the worker may not be able to communicate their location effectively, which can increase the risk of serious injury or even lead to a fatality.

Read our comparison on walkie talkies vs smart radios.

Stay Safe and Connected With Relay

Staff safety is paramount, and Relay is the ideal solution for businesses that need a two-in-one solution to workplace safety and enhanced communications.

With an innovative dashboard that’s designed for system administration and alert management, we make communication simple for teams with lone workers.

If you’re ready to find a better way to enhance safety for your workers, book a one-on-one demo with one of our experts today.

The post Man Down Alarms: How Do They Work and What are the Benefits? appeared first on Relay.