Transport sector slowest to adopt tracking technology

The study looked at how workers - in the case of Transport & Cargo drivers and truckers, currently remain safe and connected when out of cellular range. They found less than a third (28%) of the recipients working within Transport & Cargo had a means of tracking a driver's location while they were out of cell phone range, and all respondents stated they had no tracking system which enabled lone workers to check themselves in.

Previous research indicates that 20% of drivers have been attacked or threatened by members of the public. Given that communication plans and tracking can reduce the chance of accidents and ensure swift response times in the case of an emergency, it’s clear just how important the adoption of tracking technology is.

“We understand that cost and complexity can be a real concern for some organizations and businesses wanting to introduce more robust tracking methods. But advancements in hardware, airtime and software mean drivers can be more efficient, cost-effective and most importantly, safe. We pride ourselves on matching each customer to the right solution for them, their employees and their business” - expressed Mark Woody, North America Business Manager from TracPlus.  

The survey went on to ask recipients if they had the: 

- Ability to track driver location when they were out of cell phone range,

- Ability to contact and receive messages when drivers were out of cell phone range,

- Procedure which was always possible for drivers to follow (for example, even in the event of equipment failure or accident), to contact and be contacted when out of cell phone range.

Concerningly, 15% of those within the Transport & Cargo sector reported being unable to execute any of the above scenarios. 

“Ultimately, remote worker protocols are still evolving, and we know first hand that for them to remain effective, they need to be continually reviewed. We’ve seen many organizations embrace technology to better safeguard their drivers. And to be frank, given the rapidly changing needs and increasingly challenging environments faced by lone workers today, this must continue” - concludes Ben Travers, Group Product Director at Ground Control.