Lone Worker · Devices
A man-down device is dedicated hardware worn by the worker that detects falls or no motion and sends an alarm. A lone worker app provides similar functions on the smartphone the worker already carries. The choice depends on the environment, hazardous zones, connectivity and budget — there is no single answer.
In an Ex zone an ordinary phone is out of the question. In warehouses, field work and rounds, dedicated hardware is often overkill.
Published: 2026-10-19 · Updated: 2026-10-19 · 9 min read · Varilo deployment team
In explosive atmospheres (ATEX zones 0/1/2 and 20/21/22) only equipment certified for that zone may be used. An ordinary smartphone — even a rugged one — does not qualify. You need an Ex-rated phone or device.
Dedicated devices also win where there is no cellular coverage (radio, private networks), when gas measurement is needed, or when workers cannot carry phones (e.g. food production restrictions).
Rounds, warehouses, field service, security, cleaning and shift work in sites without Ex zones — workers usually already have a company phone. The app adds SOS, possible fall and no-motion detection, location on alarm and zones from QR/NFC points, without buying and servicing a second device.
Condition: the phone must be charged, connected and carried on the body. A rugged case greatly improves durability in industry.
For devices, count purchase, data plans, charging stations, calibration and replacements. For the app — licences and possibly phone upgrades. Add admin time: who tracks stock, issue and return of devices.
A mixed model is often best: Ex devices for hazardous zones and the app for everyone else, with one place to handle alarms and incident history.
VIMS Lone Worker runs on Android smartphones and connects alarms with the rest of the safety system: site plans and zones, QR/NFC points, reports and incident analysis. It does not replace certified Ex equipment — where required, we recommend the right device.
Man-down (fall detection) uses accelerometer and gyroscope data to recognise a possible fall and triggers an alarm with a cancellation window. No-motion detection alarms when the device registers no movement for a set time. The SOS button (panic alarm) lets the worker call for help deliberately, including discreetly.
An ATEX-certified device is approved for explosive atmospheres under Directive 2014/34/EU — an ordinary smartphone must not enter Ex zones. Germany applies DGUV Regel 112-139 and DIN VDE V 0825-11 to personal alarm systems; the UK uses BS 8484 for lone worker services.
TCO (total cost of ownership) covers purchase, subscriptions, charging, battery replacement, servicing, training and alarm handling. A false alarm has no real hazard behind it — reducing them (cancellation time, calibration) decides whether workers actually use the system.
| Criterion | Smartphone + app | Dedicated device |
|---|---|---|
| ATEX zones | Only an Ex-rated phone | Certified versions available |
| Start-up cost | Low — phone already exists | Higher — device purchase |
| No cellular coverage | Limited operation | Radio networks possible |
| Gas measurement | No | In selected models |
| Safety system integration | Native in VIMS | Depends on vendor |
| Ergonomics | One device | Second device to carry and charge |
Lone Worker — protection for people working alone
Lone worker protection — for people who work alone and in the field
A technician at a client site, a maintenance worker on the night shift, a driver on the road, an inspector inside a tank. If something goes wrong, there is nobody to call for help. This module shortens the time before someone finds out.
Explore the VIMS EHS module: Lone Worker — protection for working aloneInteractive safety plans and zones
Safety plans and zones — your site on a live safety map
Evacuation plans in display cases and binders of floor plans rarely help when every second counts. The Safety plans and zones module turns a floor plan into an interactive map linked to documentation, chemicals, safety walks and emergency procedures.
Explore the VIMS EHS module: Interactive safety plans and zonesQR / NFC access points
QR / NFC Access Points — everything about a zone in one scan, no login
A worker scans a code or taps a tag and instantly sees what applies to their zone: chemicals, instructions, LOTO, risks and a reporting form.
Explore the VIMS EHS module: Zero-login QR/NFC access pointsVIMS Lone Worker features are available in the Android app.
Both detect possible falls from sensors and both can produce false alarms or miss events. That is why the worker can cancel an alarm and the procedure includes confirmation.
Yes — a common model. Alarms and their history should feed one clearly defined response procedure.
Automatic detection of a possible fall or loss of consciousness from motion sensors. After detection the worker has a short window to cancel, then the alarm goes to the named people.
Only a model with the ATEX certification required for that zone. An ordinary phone is a potential ignition source and must not enter explosive atmospheres.
An app on existing phones usually has a lower entry cost. A device may be necessary for ATEX, harsh conditions or where there are no company phones — compare TCO, not purchase price.
Try VIMS Lone Worker on company Android phones — no extra hardware to buy.
