TalkTalk opts for Skyguard for lone worker safety

TalkTalk, a telecommunications company, is using a system provided by lone worker protection provider Skyguard to protect field engineers while working alone and out of hours

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.