While preparing for an overnight backpacking trip well outside of cell range, I've been reflecting on a little device that brings so much peace of mind—my inReach mini. 🏔️📡 My home community is fortunate to have a robust, highly competent search and rescue team. Even though I take every precaution to avoid needing them, it’s reassuring to know they are there and that I’m equipped with an inReach device.
Playing and working in Northern BC, I am well-versed in the power of these satellite messaging devices. Although designed for outdoor enthusiasts, I have been integrating them into routine remote working alone plans for nearly two decades. For many reasons, I advise these devices over satellite phones. While BC’s Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Regulations do not specifically require devices of this nature, and they might initially seem like an unnecessary expense, the mental well-being benefits they offer are invaluable.
Let me share an example: I assisted a manager in creating a working alone plan for workers travelling to a remote community in Northern BC. The travel distance was four hours with no cell coverage, narrow shoulders, and light traffic—unless you count bears and other wildlife. Shortly after launching the plan, complete with inReach devices, there was a mudslide that took out and closed the road. Initially, it was unknown if there were people injured or missing. The manager, concerned for her staff member travelling at the time, initially received incomplete and alarming news reports. She called me in a panic, but due to our proactive planning, we pulled up the the private website and saw that her employee was safely on the other side of the slide and still moving all thanks to their satellite connected messaging and tracking device. Although there was still the question of how to get the employee back, the initial panic was quelled with reliable, real-time information.
Psychological safety is a hot topic right now, but an essential pillar of any psychological safety management is ensuring physical safety is managed effectively. If you manage people that work alone and or remotely, you have legal responsibilities and proper planning will not only support their safety but will support your psychological safety. When I explain this benefit and value of this tech, the price point is seen in its true relation.
This is just one of many relief-filled stories I have with these devices. It’s an understatement to say I’m a fan. There are also many stories where these devices would have saved stress and unnecessary suffering. I advocate for devices like the inReach as one of many tools to create a functional working alone plan. However, the device is just one piece within a tailored plan. BC's OHS Regulations require a working alone plan for any worker working alone. These plans can vary from office to retail, manufacturing to construction environments to travel, site visits, or home-care visits. Do you have workers working alone?
I assist organizations in protecting what they value. If you need working alone planning or training, get in touch for a complimentary chat to assess your requirements.
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