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Body-worn cameras vs CCTV in retail

Retail shop assistant with a body-worn camera.

Retail environments are open to the public, and while most visitors are welcome, not every customer is desirable. Vigilance is key. While retail CCTV systems provide a foundational level of security, body-worn cameras offer the added benefits of close-up impressions and clear audio recording. These features can be instrumental in addressing common retail challenges, such as shoplifting and dealing with abusive customers.

Effective communication in emergency situations

Emergency services worker using a two-way radio.

Communicating effectively in an emergency is vital. The person raising the alarm, the person coordinating the response, and the teams that are dispatched to the scene must achieve a clear understanding of the situation. Next, they must coordinate their actions to achieve the most effective emergency response possible. For people working under extreme stress, this can be difficult, especially if dealing with emergencies isn’t part of their daily routine.

North Ayrshire Council equips Parking Attendantswith Motorola VB400 body cams

North Ayrshire Council - Imperial Civil Enforcement - Body worn cameras case study

The opening of the Lexicon provided an opportunity for a new radio system to be deployed, that covered not only the centre but the wider town centre. Members of the Management Team had been familiar with MOTOTRBO having made use of it in Princess Square. In time for opening day all stakeholders had reviewed the portfolio of products and chosen a specification that gave both the Management and Tenants, a future proof solution, to respond to the demands of a busy retail environment.

Essential guide to two-way radio terms

A man working in a warehouse communicating over a two-way radio.

Every field has its own terminology and acronyms that professionals use with casual ease, often forgetting that lay people might not know what they’re talking about. It’s a matter of convenience rather than an attempt to exclude anyone. After all, a single term can sum up concepts that would otherwise take many more words to explain. Use our glossary of radio terms to get acquainted with the world of two-way radios. You’ll uncover a few interesting technical details along the way.

The importance of effective communication for firefighters

Firefighter with protective gear and communication equipment climbing out of a firetruck.

Firefighters’ communication skills and equipment are extremely important elements of their work. Their task is to keep everyone as safe as possible in potentially life-threatening situations. Fires can be unpredictable, with situations that change by the second. In a Fire and Rescue survey by Motorola Solutions, 43% of the survey respondents felt that they don’t consistently receive operational information in a clear, concise, and timely manner from their fire control centre.

Understanding hazardous area classification

Worker using an intrinsically safe two-way radio in a hazardous area.

Although every responsible business works to eliminate risk, there are some industries where dangers are ever-present. Workplaces in which explosive atmospheres occur are among the most challenging of these. They include the oil and gas industry, certain chemical industries, and even the food and beverage industry. Hazardous area classification indicates workplace areas where there’s a risk of explosion from flammable gases, vapours, or dust.

How to ensure a safe working environment

Workers at a petrochemical company in protective clothing.

As an employer, you’re committed to keeping your people as safe as possible during their working hours. Nothing is 100 percent foolproof and unexpected accidents can still happen. But, you can go the extra mile to keep the odds low, and you can prepare for emergencies so that, if the worst were to happen, responses are as quick and effective as possible. Of course, maintaining a safe working environment is a legal obligation, so we’ll look at what the law says since it offers a great framework for addressing workplace risks.

What is push to talk over cellular (PoC)?

Man talking on a PoC radio.

Push to talk over cellular (PoC) allows you to use your mobile phone or tablet as if it were a two-way radio. Alternatively, a PoC radio, tablet, or body camera uses cellular networks to transmit messages. You don’t need to dial a number to get in touch. Just push the button and talk to your colleagues instantly. Wondering whether a PoC-enabled device is right for your teams? In this article, we’ll unpack how they work, what they do, and the workplace scenarios in which they’ll prove most useful.

A Guide to the Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2002 (DSEAR)

Men working at a workplace that has explosive or flammable substances.

DSEAR regulations require employers and self-employed contractors to identify risks presented by explosive or flammable substances in the workplace. They must take steps to safeguard workers against the hazards they present. Compliance with Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations is a legal requirement. This article summarises the regulations but if they apply to you, it would be advisable to review them in detail.

The best lone worker safety devices for your team

A lone worker using a two-way radio and laptop.

A person who works in a location where colleagues aren’t on hand to assist them or raise the alarm when they are injured, ill or in immediate danger faces elevated risk. As a responsible employer you know that it’s your moral and legal duty to take every possible precaution to protect the health and safety of your employees. Technology can help. Lone worker safety devices can mitigate workplace risks, whether it’s by improving communication, keeping tabs on employee locations, or sounding alarms.