TalkTalk selected 120 MySOS keyfob-sized personal safety devices, for use by its engineers to allow them to alert or call for help in an emergency by pressing a button.
The small size of the MySOS was a key factor in TalkTalk’s decision to use Skyguard.
“All the other options were too bulky and we wanted a supplier that reflected our own agile approach,” said Alan Cowlishaw, compliance engineer for TalkTalk. “It’s also very easy to use and the price was competitive. All in all, it’s complete peace of mind that our engineers have protection when out working.”
The MySOS features GPS-technology, two-way audio communications, a man-down fall detector and voice-memo functionality. In the event of an emergency the alarm can send a message by mobile phone technology to Skyguard’s 24/7 Incident Management Centre.
A controller will then be able to find out who the user is, determine the device's location using GPS, and access records with details of their profession, medical history and a profile picture. This information is kept secure and is treated in total confidence. Any ambient sound in the vicinity is also monitored once an alert has been raised and operators can talk to the user if it's safe to do so. Possible actions that can be then be taken in the event of an emergency include summoning an emergency service, Skyguard’s own National Response Service, or someone designated by the client.
“It’s vital that organisations adopt a rigid lone worker policy,” said Will Murray, marketing director at Skyguard. “With fines of up to £20 million for serious health and safety breaches, this is a clear message to businesses that lone worker safety must be prioritised. TalkTalk have demonstrated their commitment to the safety and wellbeing of their Engineers by equipping them with the MySOS device.”
