I’m thrilled to sit down with Donald Gainsborough, a renowned political savant and leader in policy and legislation, who is currently at the helm of Government Curated. With a deep understanding of public safety and innovative solutions, Donald brings invaluable insights into how local agencies are leveraging technology to protect their workforce. Today, we’re diving into a fascinating case from Ohio, where the Clermont County Veterans’ Service Commission has adopted wearable panic buttons to enhance staff safety. Our conversation will explore the agency’s mission, the unique challenges their employees face, and how cutting-edge tools are transforming workplace security while balancing privacy and practicality.
Can you tell us about the mission of organizations like the Clermont County Veterans’ Service Commission and the critical support they offer to veterans in their communities?
Absolutely, Javier. Agencies like the Clermont County Veterans’ Service Commission play a vital role in supporting veterans by connecting them to essential benefits and resources. Their mission is to ensure veterans receive the care and assistance they deserve, whether it’s compensation from the Veterans Affairs Department, free transportation to medical appointments, or emergency financial aid for basics like food and housing. It’s about bridging gaps and providing a safety net for those who’ve served, often dealing with complex and emotional situations.
What are some of the workplace safety challenges that staff at such agencies encounter when assisting veterans?
Staff at these agencies often work in high-stress environments where emotions can run high. Veterans may come in anxious or frustrated, especially if they’re denied benefits or assistance. There have been instances where interactions escalate, with clients becoming upset or even volatile. These situations, while not necessarily frequent, create a real need for robust safety measures to protect employees who are there to help, often in private, closed-off office spaces where tensions can build unnoticed.
Before integrating advanced technology, what kinds of safety precautions were typically in place at facilities like this one?
Prior to adopting newer systems, agencies often relied on physical barriers and basic tools. For instance, bulletproof glass separated public areas from private offices, and clients were required to store belongings in lockers to minimize risks. There were also simple panic buttons at reception desks, but they had drawbacks—once pressed, they could take days to reset, rendering them impractical for ongoing use. These measures offered some protection, but they couldn’t fully address dynamic, real-time emergencies or discreetly alert others when a situation escalated.
How does a wearable emergency alert system, like the one recently adopted, function to enhance staff safety in these environments?
The wearable alert system is a game-changer. It’s a small device, similar to a smartwatch, that staff can press in an emergency to send an immediate notification along with their GPS location. This alert goes to a cloud-based dashboard monitored by leadership, enabling quick coordination of a response. It also allows direct contact with 911 if needed. The beauty is in its portability and immediacy—staff aren’t tethered to a fixed button or location, so they’re protected wherever they are in the facility during a crisis.
Why is the silent alert feature on these devices so significant for staff during client interactions?
The silent alert feature is critical because it allows staff to call for help without escalating a situation further. In a tense interaction, if a client realizes help has been summoned, it could heighten their agitation. This setting ensures staff can discreetly signal for assistance while maintaining a calm demeanor, protecting both their safety and the privacy of the moment. It’s a thoughtful balance, ensuring help is on the way without disrupting an already delicate conversation.
What was the initial reaction from employees when this wearable technology was introduced, and how has their perspective evolved?
When the wearable panic buttons were first rolled out, there was a mix of curiosity and caution among staff. Some worried about how it would feel to wear a device or whether it would be cumbersome. But over time, as they saw leadership prioritizing their safety and experienced the ease of use, their confidence grew. Knowing help is just a button press away has boosted morale and teamwork. Even without having to use it for a real emergency yet, the mere presence of this tool has made employees feel more secure and valued in their roles.
With all staff having access to these devices, how is their privacy maintained while still ensuring safety remains a top priority?
Privacy is a huge consideration with any technology like this. The system is designed so that an employee’s location is only shared during an emergency alert or if they voluntarily choose to share it. Before implementation, there were thorough discussions to address any concerns about being tracked or monitored. Leadership made it clear that the focus is safety, not surveillance, and that trust has been key in getting staff on board. It’s about empowering employees with a tool they control, rather than imposing oversight.
What is your forecast for the future of workplace safety technologies in public-facing agencies like this one?
I believe we’re just at the beginning of a major shift in how workplace safety is approached in public-facing roles. Technologies like wearable alerts will become more common as agencies see the dual benefit of protecting staff and improving service delivery through increased confidence. I foresee advancements in integration—devices that not only alert but also record data for training or de-escalation analysis, all while maintaining strict privacy standards. The challenge will be scaling these solutions affordably across smaller agencies, but the demand for safety will drive innovation. I’m optimistic we’ll see a future where feeling secure at work is a given, not a goal.
