The news follows the company’s successful pilot programme of the compact phones which link staff to a 24-hour security Control Centre. It also reinforces the organisation’s commitment to investing in staff safety across its operations.
Ensuring the operation meets its responsibilities under current lone worker legislation (including protecting employees from violent attacks by members of the public), VINCI Park piloted 34 Romads (which have a passive SOS response facility) over the past 18-months. Approximately 40 VINCI staff members working contracts in Cardiff, Gatwick, Wigan, Newham and West India Quay were trained on how to use the device in the event of an emergency while on duty alone.
The device can also be tracked online using Google Maps software, and acts like a mobile phone, allowing incoming calls while limiting outgoing calls to four pre-programmed numbers.
Immediate and positive results
Over the course of the pilot programme, there were 11 genuine activations of the device from 11 employees working alone. Activated Romads have resulted in a quick response from the police and in one case the successful arrest of an individual. Most importantly, the swift response from the emergency services team has meant staff members have not been seriously harmed.
Company spokesperson Debbie Hayes commented: “In an industry where parking enforcement can be a challenging role, it is important that VINCI Park does all it can to ensure the safety of our staff members. Feeling a sense of security is central to employee satisfaction, and the Romad device provides our lone workers with an assurance that help is available at the touch of a button.”
Hayes concluded: “Innovation in technology lies at the heart of VINCI Park’s operations, and our investment in tried and tested technology demonstrates our dedication and commitment to improving the lone working environment for our members of staff.”
