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What is Geofencing and how is it used for IVMS?

Geofencing is a technology that defines a virtual boundary around a geographic area in the real world. A geofence can be dynamically generated, such as a radius around a mine or office, or a geofence can be a predefined set of boundaries (ie school zones or neighborhood boundaries).

Geolocation is an integral part of vehicle management system (IVMS) hardware and software (also known as GPS tracking or telematics). It allows system users to draw zones around workplaces, customer sites, and high-risk, hazardous, or safe areas. Geolocation can be a valuable tool. Examples of situations where it can be used include:

  • Formally mark ‘no go’ areas
    Example: Could be used to ensure employees avoid construction zones or environmentally protected areas.
  • Create speed awareness
    Example: Speed ​​limits can be associated with certain areas, such as a school zone or a workplace.
  • Check-in, check-out and duration within a certain zone
    Example: It can be used to verify that drivers’ routes are being followed or that certain KPIs are being met.
  • Block off high risk/dangerous areas
    Example: Help employees avoid unsafe areas, such as a train line or an explosive area in a mine.
  • Theft prevention tool
    Example: When a car is parked with the ignition off, it can be programmed to place a geofence. In case the vehicle moves from that geofence, the user or operator will be notified.

Notification integration options

There are many ways that geofence-related notifications can be incorporated into an IVMS system.

  • Events and notifications can be scheduled to be automatically sent via email or SMS to multiple parties. Multiple criteria can be configured (i.e. when an employee enters or exits a certain area, a notification is sent to the operations manager, or if a no-go zone is violated, management is notified)
  • IVMS can be connected to trigger an audible or visible in-cab warning to create driver awareness (i.e. if a driver enters a high-risk area, they will be warned with a flashing light or buzzer)
  • In high-risk areas, IVMS can be programmed to report more often for added safety and security.

Electronic notifications typically include the time, date, and location the virtual boundary was crossed, allowing immediate investigation or response to the situation.

Benefits of geofencing

In addition to being a way to track activity within a specific geographic location, geofencing is a powerful tool for:

  • Improve driver safety and awareness
  • Establish driver liability
  • Streamlining of daily operations
  • Increase the overall productivity of the company
  • Track inventory and high-value assets

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