Construction Law

SOS Devices on the Project Site Part 2 featured image

SOS Devices on the Project Site Part 2

In part one of this two-part article, the Memphis contractor lawyers at Cotney Attorneys & Consultants discussed SOS devices and their scalability in the face of a nationwide shift toward 5G technology. Now, we will continue to discuss this topic by focusing on tips for contractors who want to bolster their use of SOS devices and avoid any scaling issues.

Remember, one of your most important jobs as a contractor is to keep your workers safe. Not only can this keep your projects on schedule and help you avoid a breach of contract, but it can also help you avoid costly workers’ compensation claims that throw a wrench in the building process. If you are dealing with workers’ compensation claims or your project site has recently experienced an influx of injuries, consult a Memphis contractor lawyer with years of experience handling all manner of construction-related legal matters.

Is It Finally Time to Upgrade SOS Devices?

As we mentioned in part one, the nationwide shift toward 5G technology is threatening to compromise the vast majority of SOS devices currently being utilized on project sites across the country. SOS devices, also referred to as mobile personal emergency response (MPER) devices, operate on a simple premise. Needless to say, this is reflected in their somewhat outdated technology. Manufacturers have been slow to rollout upgraded models since, until recently, there seemed to be no need for such upgrades. This has resulted in a “device drought” which is calling upon these same manufacturers to play catch-up in order to facilitate the needs of contractors and construction personnel.

Preventing the Nightmare Scenario

Imagine that you’re a roofer who has recently slipped off a roof. Although you’re now suspended from a line thanks to a properly utilized fall arrest system, a collision with a metal beam has left you in a daze. In the heat of the moment, it’s hard to process the situation you’re in, but you know that you need to call for help. As you attempt to toggle your SOS device system to send out an alert, you discover that your device is unable to send out a signal. Suddenly, you aren’t sure what to do, and the pressure is mounting. This is one example of the type of nightmare scenario that could unfold if obsolete SOS devices are allowed to enter the project site, and it’s exactly the type of scenario that contractors should dread.

The Added Cost is Probably Worth It

If you want to avoid this type of situation, it’s vital that you adopt some new habits to ensure that your SOS devices are primed to serve your workers. For instance, implementing a regular testing schedule will guarantee that your devices are in working order before they are utilized on the project site. This type of test can be conducted in a matter of minutes or even seconds and has the potential to save a worker’s life in exchange for a paltry amount of time. Keeping up with the necessary upgrades will be more expensive, but it will also help you decrease the chance of a workplace fatality derailing your project altogether. No matter how you slice it, the added cost is worth it if you want to utilize SOS devices on your project sites.

If you would like to speak with a Memphis contractor lawyer, please contact us today.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.