Improve Field Worker Safety with ArcGIS Field Maps
Improve Field Worker Safety with ArcGIS Field Maps
In any utility organization the field crew plays the vital role of your eyes and ears in the field. They are the first to identify issues, report emergencies, and ensure the smooth execution of tasks. When in the field, these workers are regularly exposed to situations and environments that put their safety at risk. These safety hazards can vary from biting dogs, verbally and physically abusive customers, a modified configuration of the utility system, and fast changing weather events. Consistent and near real-time access to information is paramount in order to avoid and mitigate these safety hazards.
Historically, field workers had to review known hazard information, utility network data, and weather information in the office or carry printed maps and files with them. This approach posed several challenges, such as the risk of losing paper files, out of date information, or not having access to new known hazards as they come up.
Thankfully today's mobile computing devices coupled with the prevalence of cellular and Wi-Fi communication networks provides a foundation from which field workers can be provided with consistent and near real-time information. But having a smart phone in your pocket that is connected to the cellular network is not enough. Utility field workers need a mobile map application that always knows where they are on the map and where network assets are. A mobile map application to show them where these safety hazards are. A mobile map application that can proactively notify them before they approach a known hazard. A mobile map application that streams real-time weather warnings of tornados, flash floods, ice storms, and high wind events to their smart device. They need a mobile map application that can automatically update its utility asset data as changes are made, so the field worker is aware of changes to the configuration of the utility system.
They need ArcGIS Field Maps.
Access Data Whenever, Wherever
Field Maps allows your team to share web maps specifically configured for your field crew. These maps can reference all necessary data in a single map (or multiple different maps if preferred) that your team can access on any device (apple, android and windows) and bring with them anywhere.
The configurability of field maps enables the integration of various data sources. This flexibility ensures that field workers have access to critical information wherever they are. This information can include, but is not limited to:
Utility Network & Asset Data
Field maps can incorporate your utility network data and other asset information. From pipes and wires to regulator stations and substations, this data gives your team access to job-critical information in the field. Many Utility Network capabilities, like network tracing, viewing connectivity associations, and viewing containers, are now also available in field maps.
Customer Information & Known Hazards
Integration with customer information systems allows utility field workers to access customer data that has historically only been available with in-office customer information systems. This often includes data on known field hazards. With this up-to-date information available in a field map, crews can proactively mitigate risks and prioritize safety. Now your field crew no longer has to wonder which house on the block has a biting dog or which access road has a locked gate.
Living Atlas Data
Field maps can also leverage Living Atlas Data: a collection of authoritative data from Esri and partners providing additional context and insights. This is data that Esri maintains from authoritative sources, ensuring that it is up-to-date, reliable, and accurate. From soil information sourced from the department of agriculture, to flood plain data sourced from FEMA, to live severe weather alerts from NOAA, the Living Atlas provides powerful context in your field maps.
Basemaps
A gallery of high-quality Esri basemaps, from imagery to street maps, are included with Field Maps. You may also configure and share out any custom basemaps you may need. Basemaps enhance spatial awareness and navigation capabilities while in the field.
Location Services Answer the Question of "Where?"
In addition to data accessibility, Field Maps offers robust location services that answer the critical question of "where?" in the field. Situational awareness is key to keeping your team safe in the field, and knowing exactly where you are is the foundation of situational awareness.
GPS
Field maps leverages GPS technology to provide location information to field workers. By default, Field Maps will use the native GPS capabilities of the device. If higher accuracy is required, Field Maps can also connect to a variety of high accuracy GNSS receivers via Bluetooth, providing whatever level of accuracy that is required. The field user will see the familiar “blue dot” on their map that shows them exactly where they are.
Navigation
In addition to knowing where they are, a field worker needs to be able to navigate to various locations throughout the day. Whether they need to find a specific meter or drive to an address, they can use Field Maps to navigate. If driving to a location, field maps can direct the field user to turn-by-turn directions to a specific asset, set of coordinates, or address. If trying to find a specific location on foot, the inclusion of a compass and directional arrow aids field workers in identifying what direction they need to travel what direction they are currently facing.
Tracking
Field Maps provides real-time tracking capabilities, enabling supervisors and team members to monitor the location and progress of field crews. The collection of breadcrumbs enables improved auditing and compliance management. The last-known-location of crew members can also provide valuable, time-sensitive situational awareness in an emergency. If a crew member loses service or runs out of battery, the last-known-location will give your team awareness into where they were last, what direction & speed they were traveling, and even the battery percentage of their device.
Geofencing Proactively Alerts to Hazards
Geofencing allows for the creation of virtual boundaries within field maps. Crews will receive push notifications when they enter or exit these designated areas, enhancing safety protocols and ensuring adherence to specific work zones.
Geofences advance the safety of workers in the field by being proactive about warning them of hazards or other critical information when and where they need it.
Get Started: Configuring Maps for Field Maps
The following steps outline the process of maximizing your use of Field Maps for map viewing and worker safety:
Create & Configure a Web Map
Start by creating a map using ArcGIS Online or Enterprise and incorporating the necessary layers and data sources relevant to your field operation. Add the required data into the map, such as utility network data, customer information, known hazards, and Living Atlas Data.
Customize the map, including (but not limited to) symbology, labeling, and pop-ups, to ensure optimal visualization and understanding of the data.
Configuring Field Maps Settings
Once you have finished configuring your web map, it’s time to optimize the map for use in Field Maps. Adjust the Field Maps settings, using the Field Maps Designer, according to your specific needs.
First, you can use the web designer to configure any forms needed for data viewing or data collection and fine tune the tools available to your field crew. Adding layer filters, form calculations and pop-up configuration can make the user experience easy and intuitive for the field worker.
Next, you can define geofences within the map. Geofences can be configured for one or more layers you have already added to your map. This will outline virtual boundaries that trigger notifications or alerts when crossed by field crews. The size of the geofence buffer, the type of geofence (location notification or location sharing) and the notification message are all configurable.
Does your field crew need access even in areas of low or no cell service? Configure offline areas to ensure access to critical information even in areas with limited or no network connectivity.
Lastly, if location tracking is required for your map, you can also configure these settings within the web designer. Location tracking will allow you to collect information such as location breadcrumbs and last-known-location for your crews.
Share Map
Once the map is configured, share it with the appropriate people ensuring that the right individuals have access to the right maps. Utilize groups and permissions to control access to maps and data, ensuring data security.
Enhanced Safety and Efficiency in the Field
Safety in the field involves many unique factors. From understanding where hazardous conditions are, to getting push notifications before entering a dangerous area, to making sure your team always has your last known location in the field – Field Maps enhances the safety of your team in the field.
Embracing ArcGIS Field Maps also empowers organizations to overcome the challenges of relying on paper-based or fragmented data sources. With the ability to configure maps, integrate relevant data, and customize settings, Field Maps equips field crews with a comprehensive tool that enhances their efficiency, productivity, and, most importantly, their safety in the field.