Personal Mobile Radios (PMRs)
SHOP NOW
Workplace Communication Buying Guide
Workplace communication involves tools used to communicate between workers who work in environments such as construction, logistics, manufacturing, utilities, and event management where effective communication is essential for workplace safety, productivity, and emergency coordination.
Below is a breakdown of each of the key tools used in industrial and outdoor environments:
What are Personal Mobile Radios (PMRs)?
PMRs are handheld, license-free two-way radios that operate on pre-set frequencies like PMR446 in the UK.
PMRs are commonly used in construction sites, warehouses, hospitality, and retail and are ideal for short range communications (typically up to 1-2km in open spaces). These mobile radios use PMR446 which is a UHF (Ultra High Frequency) band that operates on 446.0 to 446.2 MHz. With no Ofcom licence required, these radios are quick and affordable to roll out across multiple retail outlets. The built-in encryption features help prevent interference from nearby businesses using the same frequency band.
What are Licensed two-way Radios?
Licensed two-way radios require an Ofcom licence to operate on designated frequencies, offering stronger, interference-free communication over longer distances.
These radios operate on UHF or VHF frequencies assinged by Ofcom, ensuring minimal interference and better reliability on-site. Modern licensed radios, such as Motorola DMR or Hytera digital units, support features like group calling, emergency SOS alerts, and man-down detection. These attributes are vital in scenarios where fast response and worker safety are priorities. Devices with IP67 or IP68 ratings offer protection against dust and water, making them suitable for demanding environments such as outdoor worksites or industrial zones.
What are Special Environment Phones?
Special environment phones are used in high-risk or harsh environments where standard phones are not suitable. These rugged (designed to withstand tough conditions like dust, water, drops, and extreme temperatures) and weatherproof devices are designed for communication in challenging settings.
The Gai-Tronics Titan is a widely used industrial-grade telephone, typically found in rail infrastructure, tunnels, offshore platforms, chemical plants, and heavy manufacturing sites. With its IP66 rating, it provides full protection against dust and high-pressure water jets, ensuring continuous operation in the harshest weather conditions. Special Environment phones are often hardwired and line-powered, ensuring communication even in a power outage. Some variants come with integrated beacon flashers or intrinsically safe certifications for use in ATEX or Zone 1 hazardous areas.
Best Use Cases in Different Environments
| Workplace | Recommended Communication Device | Why It’s Suitable |
|---|---|---|
| Construction Sites | Licensed radios or rugged phones with PTT | Durable, long range, works in high-noise environments |
| Warehouses | Personal mobile radios (PMR446) | Quick comms across short distances, easy to deploy |
| Utilities & Fieldwork | Rugged phones or licensed radios | Need for GPS, mobile data, and reliable voice links |
| Events & Venues | PMRs for staff coordination | Compact, no licence needed, quick deployment |
| Transport/Logistics | Licensed radios with vehicle kits | Long-distance, uninterrupted comms in motion |
Workplace Communication FAQs
Licensed radios use dedicated frequencies approved by Ofcom and offer better range, less interference, and more features. Licence-free radios (PMR446) are cheaper and easier to use but are limited in range and power.
Rugged phones are ideal when your job involves tough environments like construction sites, outdoor fieldwork, or anywhere exposed to dust, water, drops, or vibration.
Yes, PMR446 radios work well in small to medium indoor spaces like warehouses or retail stores where short-range communication is needed without a licence.
These ratings show how well a device resists dust and water. IP67 means it's dust-tight and can survive being in water for 30 minutes. IP68 offers even more protection.
Licensed radios with SOS alerts, GPS, and man-down features are best for high-risk environments. Industrial phones like the Gai-Tronics Titan are reliable for fixed emergency points.
Basic training is recommended so staff know how to use the key features, follow protocols, and ensure safety in emergencies.