What Is Push-to-Talk Over Cellular and How Can It Help Schools?

“Push to talk over cellular” sounds like we’re mixing verbs, but it’s actually very important. Push to Talk over Cellular is a way of creating instant, reliable, immediate communication. It’s a little like a two-way radio, except that it looks and feels like a mobile phone. While phones and tables can do this job, it is usually advisable invest in purposefully designed digital devices that have bonuses such as extended battery life and guaranteed security, both of which can be very helpful in a school. Equally importantly, PTToC coverage is large, making Push to Talk over Cellular ideal for large, sprawling sites. Additionally, barriers such as walls do not interrupt critical communication. As such, it is a methodology that is widely adopted for complex sites.

Arguably one of the best aspects of PTToC is that it does not require searching through a phone to locate a number. This can be a vital asset in the case of an emergency, especially as PTToC contacts can include first responders. If an incident occurs, seconds can make all the difference, so swiping the screen to get instant help can be crucial. When your security team is operating with PTToC, coordination is rapid, secure, and immediate. This increases both efficiency and proficiency, empowering staff to ensure that incidents have no opportunity to escalate.

A highly valuable feature of Push to Talk over Cellular is group calling. This can summon a specific group of personnel, or, if necessary, everyone in the building. For example, if a student has gone missing, you can alert all of your employees to keep their eyes open while the main team deals with the situation. Equally, if there is a security breach, everyone can be instantly informed. According to current government guidelines, communication is at the heart of school security, and PTToC can be one of the most effective methods of keeping everyone on the same page as real-time events unfold.

All schools operate on a tight budget, which is one of the most attractive features of PTToC. By using cellular networks, you do not need to pay for additional equipment. This does not mean that two-way radio systems should not be considered. On some sites, especially in remote and sprawling locations, they may be preferable. Additionally, two-way radios have features such as noise cancelling that can enhance their efficiency. However, if your budget is slim, it is likely that a PTToC system is the most effective way of keeping your students and employees safe.

When you do your risk assessment of your school, consider whether your employees require hands free communication. If so, PTToC may be your ideal solution. For instance, if a situation is unfolding and a member of staff is dealing with it alone, they may require the narrow time, space, and mental focus to simply push a button and ask for assistance. Dealing with emergencies is scientifically understood to be a major psychological challenge, so the less steps involved, the better. Your risks and hazards will depend on your unique setting and requirements, which is why it is helpful to discuss your requirements with a dedicated expert.