When working in complex and demanding environments, such as those typical in the power and utilities sectors, instant communication is necessary to keep workers safe, achieve KPIs and operate efficiently. One of the most effective forms of communication in wind farms, power stations and water treatment plants is the humble two way radio.
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A two way radio, often referred to as a walkie talkie, is a portable, hand held communications device that allows two or more people to stay connected via a radio frequency channel, rather than via a cellular network.
Two way radios are of particular benefit to workers in the power and utilities sector as they offer exceptional battery life, hearing protection options and the ability to hold clear, uninterrupted conversations. In addition, many power and utilities two way radios offer additional functions, including man-down and lone worker, which can vastly enhance safety outcomes in these inherently hazardous operating environments.
Power plant two way radios can be attached to clothing via a belt clip or a lanyard or inserted safely into a pocket. Where hands free operation is required, an earpiece and microphone can be used. Because two way radios are lightweight, portable and versatile, they are ideally suited to environments in which workers regularly move between zones and where cellular mobile signal is intermittent or non-existent.
Two way radios operate on a radio frequency channel that is selected by the client. Most two way radios offer a choice of 6 or more radio frequency channels from which to choose, ensuring that the workforce can communicate effectively, targeting their communications to achieve optimal results.
There are many reasons why two way radios offer greater functionality to the power and utilities sector than any other form of person to person communication.
Portable and Always Available
Their lightweight and portable construction means that power plant two way radios can be kept on a worker’s person at all times. This ensures that all staff, from managers and supervisors to on-the-ground teams, can keep pace with changes and respond to directives promptly.
Instant Alerting
They allow injured, unwell or trapped workers to radio for assistance without delay, which can be instrumental in delivering a satisfactory conclusion. Many models offer additional safety functions, including lone worker and man-down, which enable workers to radio for help at the touch of a button, transmitting both the nature of the incident and their GPS coordinates to facilitate an emergency response and improve safety outcomes.
In addition to the features detailed above, it is important to select a walkie talkie frequency that aligns with your operating environment.
Battery Life & Power Output
You should select a sufficiently powerful unit to withstand the demands of your operating environment. Typically, a two way radio with a minimum of 4 Watts will be sufficient. In addition, check the battery life expectations to ensure that the radio you select will meet your performance specifications, easily outlasting the full duration of a shift and being easily recharged before its next use.
Noise Cancellation
Background noise cancellation is a very helpful function that eliminates static and background noise, helping team members to communicate easily, even in windy conditions or when working alongside heavy machinery.
The power and utilities sector has, without a doubt, some of the most challenging working environments in industry, and to ensure safe and efficient operations, staff must be adequately trained and equipped with appropriate communication devices. The two way radios that you issue to your workforce are as important to their safety at work as the personal protective equipment (PPE) that they wear.
For help in choosing the perfect communications solution for your business, please speak to the experts at NRC Radio today. We are your trusted radio communications specialists with over 20 years of experience in this marketplace. We understand the demands of your operating environment and can tailor a communication solution for your business. Whether you plan to purchase or hire a custom communication solution, we can help, and with our industry-leading after-sales service, you will benefit from long-term support to ensure successful deployment and usage.
To find out more or to place an order, please call us today.
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