Update your Status with SMS

Overview
If you don’t have access to the Ok Alone app—such as when using an older phone, satellite phone, or if there’s no Wi-Fi/data connection—you can update your status by sending an SMS. This method lets you start a shift, check in, request help, end a shift, and even set a high-risk check-in using simple text commands.

 

1. How SMS Status Updates Work

To change your status via SMS, send a text message to Ok Alone containing your Worker PIN followed by a status keyword. Each keyword triggers a different action:

• <PIN> start – Starts a shift

• <PIN> ok – Sends a check-in (also starts a shift if none is active)

• <PIN> help – Sends a help request

• <PIN> end – Ends a shift

• <PIN> status – Replies with your current status

• <PIN> highrisk <minutes> – Sets a high-risk check-in for the specified number of minutes (e.g., 123456 highrisk 10 for 10 minutes)

  • 123456 start –  Starts a shift
  • 123456 ok – Sends a check-in, also able to start a shift 
  • 123456 help – Sends a help request
  • 123456 end – Ends a shift
  • 123456 status – Responds with worker’s current status
  • 123456 highrisk 10 – set up a high risk for 10 minutes

Note: If Ok Alone recognizes your mobile number, you may skip entering your Worker PIN in the message.

2. SMS Command Examples

1. Starting or Checking In:

   • Send: 123456 start or 123456 ok

   • Result: Your shift begins (or records a check-in if the shift is already active).

2. Requesting Help:

   • Send: 123456 help

   • Result: An immediate Help Alert is sent to your designated Monitor.

3. Ending a Shift:

   • Send: 123456 end

   • Result: Your shift ends, and no further check-ins are required.

4. Getting Your Current Status:

   • Send: 123456 status

   • Result: You receive an automated reply showing whether you’re “on shift,” “checked in,” or “off shift.” (Requires Comms plan)

5. Setting a High-Risk Check-In:

   • Send: 123456 highrisk 15 (sets a 15-minute high-risk timer)

   • Result: You’ll receive a reminder in the specified minutes; if you don’t check in, the system treats you as high-risk.

3. Phone Numbers by Region

Save your region’s number under a contact name like “Ok Alone SMS” so you can text quickly:

• Canada: [phone] or [phone]

• USA: [phone]

• United Kingdom: [phone]

• Australia: [phone]

• New Zealand: [phone]

• Ireland: [phone]

Tip: Double-check that you saved the correct number for your region to avoid misdirected messages.

 

4. Setting a High-Risk Check-In via SMS

A high-risk check-in ensures extra monitoring during periods of elevated danger (e.g., working at heights). To create one:

1. Open your SMS app.

2. Send: <PIN> highrisk <minutes> (for example, 123456 highrisk 30).

3. You’ll receive a confirmation message indicating the high-risk timer has started.

   • 123456 highrisk 10 – set up a high risk for 10 minutes
   • 123456 highrisk 30 – set up a high risk for 30 minutes
   • 123456 highrisk 60 – set up a high risk for 60 minutes

If you don’t send a follow-up check-in before the timer expires, Ok Alone immediately treats you as “late” and follows your escalation plan.

5. Receiving an Automated Status Reply

Organizations on the Comms plan can enable automated status replies. When you text <PIN> status, Ok Alone immediately sends back your current state (e.g., “You are on shift and last checked in 10 minutes ago”). To ensure this works:

1. Your account must be on the Comms plan.

2. An administrator must enable “Automated SMS Status” on the Dashboard:

   • Go to Settings → Company Settings.

   • Toggle Automated SMS Status Reply to On.