Multitone’s technology helps foster a safe working environment for warehouse workers in Germany

Multitone’s critical communications, integration and automation technologies are deployed in a major global online retailer’s warehouses in Germany to create a safe, supportive environment for deaf and hard-of-hearing workers.

The Multitone i-Message critical messaging platform connects with the warehouses’ fire alarm systems. Fire alarms generally operate as an audible alarm, but this presents an obvious problem for deaf workers. They may be alone with nobody to make them aware of the situation. Even if there are others with them, a lack of sign-language skills combined with a high-pressure, urgent situation may lead to misunderstandings and delays.

Multitone’s technology solves this by providing both the interface with the fire alarm system and the means of transmitting an alert message to deaf workers, using a highly reliable, robust radio communications system. When the fire alarm sounds, an alert message is generated automatically by Multitone i-Message and then broadcast via a radio transmitter to Multitone pagers. These devices vibrate and display the alarm message on a clear, multi-colour display which lights up red to signify an evacuation.

These pagers are ideal for mobile warehouse workers, as they can be clipped to workers’ clothing or fit into a pocket. They’re resistant to drops, feature a dust and water resistance rating of IP67, are rechargeable and can last for several days on a single charge.

Our alerting solution for deaf workers is just one way in which the retail giant have developed a supportive working environment for disabled people in their German warehouses. You can find out more by viewing their videos (in German) here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_TuzinbM38c

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FnbKFryJF7Q

According to a UK government article, there are around 11 million deaf or hard of hearing people in the UK, as well as 151,000 British Sign Language users. Unfortunately, deaf people are significantly less likely to be employed compared to the general population. If you would like to hear how we can help make your workplace more suitable for deaf employees, get in touch with us today.