RS Components has released the Safe Distancing Assistant from Pathfindr, a new addition to the company's supplier portfolio specialising in asset intelligence utilising connectivity-enabled location tracking. Created for usage in enclosed environments, such as offices, factories, warehouses and education facilities, the small, lightweight device may be simply clipped onto an ID lanyard to forewarn the wearers when a social distancing limit is being breached. It can also do away with the requirement for intrusive PPE.

The device employs ultra-wideband technology to produce a full 360-degree field of detection, which is more reliable and accurate than other wireless technologies, such as Bluetooth. The device functions straight out of the box with no necessity for extra hardware, infrastructure, or connectivity. It has a default setting of 2m, which is also adaptable. As it is activated when worn, there is no necessity to remember to turn it on and off. It is fully rechargeable through the USB charging cable, which is supplied, and will deliver up to five days of continuous use on one charge.

“Our Safe Distancing Assistant is affordable, hygienic and simple to use,” said Ben Sturgess, chief technical officer at Pathfindr. “When worn, it emits a short audible or vibrating alert when another wearer is detected within two metres, advising both wearers to check and increase their distance. It will help businesses assure employees that robust social distancing measures are in place and prove compliance with safe working legal requirements.”

“Pathfindr’s Safe Distancing Assistant helps businesses effectively deal with the challenges of COVID-19,” said Rebecca Matthews, commercial supplier manager at RS. “It also benefits businesses where there are likely to be visitors who may not be as familiar with internal social distancing procedures.”