Originally published
July 23, 2025
Last Updated
July 23, 2025
The safety of lone workers, individuals who operate in isolation without direct supervision is a growing concern particularly in remote or hazardous environments. In an increasingly temperamental political landscape sectors such as oil and gas, mining, forestry, utilities and agriculture often require employees to work away from urban infrastructure, where conventional communication methods may not be as reliable. In these settings, Voice over LTE (VoLTE) has become a vital technology, providing dependable, high-quality voice communication for those that need it.
What is VoLTE?
VoLTE is a technology that enables voice calls to be made over 4G LTE networks, rather than traditional 2G or 3G networks. By shifting to all-IP platform, VoLTE delivers for usersusers’ clear advantages in call quality, connection speed and overall efficiency.
Why Communication is Crucial for Lone Workers…
For lone workers in remote areas, continuous communication can be a lifeline. It can be essential; for routine check-ins and progress updates, raising the alarm in emergency situations, coordinating with field teams or control centres and receiving updates in real time on environmental or safety hazards.
How does VoLTE Supports Lone Workers
Superior Call Quality and Clarity
VoLTE offers high-definition voice quality, which is particularly important in noisy outdoor or industrial settings. Clearer audio helps prevent misunderstandings and ensures that important information is conveyed accurately.
Quicker Call Set-Up Times
VoLTE significantly reduces the time to connect a call. This is critical in emergency situations where every second counts.
Enhanced Coverage in Remote Locations
LTE networks have expanded rapidly helping to provide better coverage in rural or those harder to reach areas in comparison to older 2G and 3G networks. As many operators phase out legacy networks, VoLTE ensures workers continue to have access to voice services over modern 4G infrastructure.
Simultaneous Voice and Data
Unlike traditional mobile systems, VoLTE allows users to make voice calls while using data. Lone workers can speak with supervisors whilst access maps, sending images, or streaming video capabilities that are essential for reporting incidents or solving problems in real time.
Improved Battery Efficiency
VoLTE’s efficient data transmission can reduce power usage, helping to extend device battery life for IoT devices. This is a significant advantage in areas where charging facilities may be limited or unavailable.
Seamless Integration with Safety Systems
Many modern lone worker safety solutions such as GPS trackers, SOS buttons, and man down detectors are now compatible with VoLTE enabled devices. This allows alerts and voice communications to be transmitted over the same LTE connection, simplifying operations and improving reliability.
VoLTE is playing a crucial role in enhancing the safety and efficiency of lone workers operating in remote and high-risk areas. By delivering clearer call quality, faster connection times, and seamless integration with digital safety systems, VoLTE ensures workers remain connected when it matters most. As legacy networks are phased out, transitioning to VoLTE is not just a technological upgrade—it’s a vital step towards protecting employees and ensuring reliable communication across the UK’s most challenging work environments.
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