---
title: LoRa®-based Contact Tracing to Help Businesses Reopen Safely
description: Enterprises are turning to technology and the Internet of Things (IoT) to aid in the challenge to protect staff, facilitate early detection and enable the quarantining of colleagues.
image: https://blog.semtech.com/hubfs/Semtech_LoRa_COVID_ContactTracing.jpg
---

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- [LoRa®](https://www.semtech.com/lora)
  
    - [LoRa® Overview](https://www.semtech.com/lora)
      
      ### LoRa Overview
      
      LoRa is the de facto wireless platform of Internet of Things (IoT). Semtech's LoRa chipsets connect sensors to the Cloud and enable real-time communication of data and analytics that can be utilized to enhance efficiency and productivity.
      
      [Read More](https://www.semtech.com/lora)
      
      
      
          - [LoRa (PHY)](https://www.semtech.com/lora/what-is-lora)
          - [Benefits of LoRa](https://www.semtech.com/lora/why-lora)
          - [LoRaWAN® Standard](https://www.semtech.com/lora/lorawan-standard)
          - [Products](https://www.semtech.com/products/wireless-rf)
    - [Applications](https://www.semtech.com/lora/lora-applications)
      
      ### Applications Overview
      
      With an ever-increasing number of IoT vertical applications, LoRa devices and the LoRaWAN standard is creating business efficiencies and improving lives around the world.
      
      [Read More](https://www.semtech.com/lora/lora-applications)
      
      
      
          - [Agriculture](https://www.semtech.com/lora/lora-applications/smart-agriculture)
          - [Cities](https://www.semtech.com/lora/lora-applications/smart-cities)
          - [Environment](https://www.semtech.com/lora/lora-applications/smart-environment)
          - [Healthcare](https://www.semtech.com/lora/lora-applications/smart-healthcare)
          - [Buildings](https://www.semtech.com/lora/lora-applications/smart-buildings)
          - [Homes](https://www.semtech.com/lora/lora-applications/smart-homes)
          - [Industrial Control](https://www.semtech.com/lora/lora-applications/smart-industrial-control)
          - [Retail](https://www.semtech.com/lora/lora-applications/smart-retail)
          - [Supply Chain and Logistics](https://www.semtech.com/lora/lora-applications/smart-supply-chain-logistics)
          - [Electricity](https://www.semtech.com/lora/lora-applications/smart-electricity-metering)
          - [Gas](https://www.semtech.com/lora/lora-applications/smart-gas-metering)
          - [Water](https://www.semtech.com/lora/lora-applications/smart-water-metering)
    - [Ecosystem](https://www.semtech.com/lora/ecosystem)
      
      ### Ecosystem Overview
      
      LoRa is bolstered by a diverse global ecosystem of hardware manufacturers, software designers, network providers, and industry associations.
      
      [Read More](https://www.semtech.com/lora/ecosystem)
      
      
      
          - [LoRa Alliance®](https://www.semtech.com/lora/ecosystem/lora-alliance)
          - [Featured Sensor Use Cases](https://www.semtech.com/lora/ecosystem/sensor-features)
          - [Gateways](https://www.semtech.com/lora/ecosystem/gateways)
          - [Software](https://www.semtech.com/lora/ecosystem/software)
          - [Networks](https://www.semtech.com/lora/ecosystem/networks)
          - [Industry Alliances](https://www.semtech.com/lora/ecosystem/industry-alliances)
    - [Resources](https://www.semtech.com/lora/resources)
      
      ### Resources Overview
      
      Explore our top resources to help you learn more about LoRa devices and the LoRaWAN standard or bring a LoRa-based solution to market.
      
      [Read More](https://www.semtech.com/lora/resources)
      
      
      
          - [LoRa Products Overview](https://www.semtech.com/lora/resources)
          - [Videos](https://www.semtech.com/lora/resources/lora-videos)
          - [White Papers & Use Cases](https://www.semtech.com/lora/resources/lora-white-papers)
          - [LoRa Developers & Tech Support](https://www.semtech.com/lora/resources/lora-community)
          - [LoRa Calculator](https://www.semtech.com/design-support/lora-calculator)
          - [Amazon Sidewalk](https://info.semtech.com/sidewalk)
          - [Academy for LoRaWAN](https://www.semtech.com/lora/resources/lorawan-academy)
          - [Logo Use](https://www.semtech.com/company/brand-resources)
          - [Press Releases](https://www.semtech.com/company/press/category/pr-lora-wireless-rf)
          - [Press Coverage](https://www.semtech.com/company/news/category/pr-lora-wireless-rf)
          - [Contact](https://www.semtech.com/company/contact/support)
- [Products](https://www.semtech.com/products)
  
    - [Products Overview](https://www.semtech.com/products)
      
      ### Products Overview
      
      Thousands of customers worldwide rely on our diverse product portfolio and world class technology roadmap for solutions in low power wireless communications, optical data transport, video broadcasting, power management, circuit protection, touch sensing, and more.
      
      [Read More](https://www.semtech.com/products)
      
      
      
      ### Quick Links
      
          - [Product Selector Guides](https://www.semtech.com/design-support/product-guides)
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    - [LoRa® Wireless RF](https://www.semtech.com/products/wireless-rf)
      
      ### Products Overview
      
      LoRa®, a long range, low power platform, and the de facto wireless platform of Internet of Things, is highly integrated and cost-effective, boasting a notable battery life of up to 20 years, a 3-mile range in urban environments and a 30-mile range outdoors.
      
      [Read More](https://www.semtech.com/products/wireless-rf)
      
      
      
          - [ICs for Gateways](https://www.semtech.com/products/wireless-rf/lora-core)
          - [ICs for Sensors](https://www.semtech.com/products/wireless-rf/lora-connect)
          - [LoRa Cloud™](https://loracloud.com)
          - [Software Library](https://www.semtech.com/products/wireless-rf/software-library-protocol-solution)
    - [Circuit Protection](https://www.semtech.com/products/circuit-protection)
      
      ### Products Overview
      
      Sophisticated devices that protect sensitive circuitry from Electrostatic Discharge (ESD), Electrical Fast Transients (EFT), Cable Discharge Events (CDE), and other electrical overstress.
      
      [Read More](https://www.semtech.com/products/circuit-protection)
      
      
      
      ### Circuit Protection Products
      
          - [ESD Protection Diodes](https://www.semtech.com/products/circuit-protection/esd-protection)
          - [TVS Diodes](https://www.semtech.com/products/circuit-protection/tvs-diodes)
      
      
      ### Interfaces
      
          - [Antenna](https://www.semtech.com/products/circuit-protection/antenna)
          - [Automotive Ethernet](https://www.semtech.com/products/circuit-protection/automotive-ethernet)
          - [Automotive High Speed](https://www.semtech.com/products/circuit-protection/automotive-high-speed)
          - [Ethernet](https://www.semtech.com/products/circuit-protection/ethernet)
          - [HDMI](https://www.semtech.com/products/circuit-protection/hdmi)
          - [RS-485](https://www.semtech.com/products/circuit-protection/rs485)
          - [USB](https://www.semtech.com/products/circuit-protection/usb)
          - [VBUS](https://www.semtech.com/products/circuit-protection/vbus)
    - [Signal Integrity](https://www.semtech.com/products/signal-integrity)
      
      ### Products Overview
      
      A comprehensive portfolio of innovative optical, analog and mixed-signal semiconductor solutions that serve the rising global demand for high-speed data transmission products.
      
      [Read More](https://www.semtech.com/products/signal-integrity)
      
      
      
          - [Clock & Data Recovery](https://www.semtech.com/products/signal-integrity/clock-and-data-recovery)
          - [Laser Drivers and Transceivers](https://www.semtech.com/products/signal-integrity/laser-drivers-transceivers)
          - [Limiting Amplifiers](https://www.semtech.com/products/signal-integrity/limiting-amplifiers)
          - [ROSAs](https://www.semtech.com/products/signal-integrity/rosas)
          - [Signal Conditioners](https://www.semtech.com/products/signal-integrity/signal-conditioners)
          - [Transimpedance Amplifiers](https://www.semtech.com/products/signal-integrity/transimpedance-amplifiers)
    - [Professional AV](https://www.semtech.com/products/professional-av)
      
      ### Products Overview
      
      Advanced off-the-shelf technology that enables end-to-end systems and integrates advanced inline signal processing capabilities such as light compression, broadcast quality scaling and audio down-mixing.
      
      [Read More](https://www.semtech.com/products/professional-av)
      
      
      
          - [BlueRiver®](https://www.semtech.com/products/professional-av/blueriver)
          - [USB Extension](https://www.semtech.com/products/professional-av/usb-extension)
    - [PerSe® Smart Sensing](https://www.semtech.com/products/perse-smart-sensing)
      
      ### Products Overview
      
      Ultra-low power, feature-rich touch controllers that are optimized for numerous applications and provide best-in-class sensitivity with robust noise immunity to enhance touch and near range proximity detection.
      
      [Read More](https://www.semtech.com/products/perse-smart-sensing)
      
      
      
          - [PerSe® Connect](https://www.semtech.com/products/perse-smart-sensing/perse-connect)
          - [PerSe® Contact](https://www.semtech.com/products/perse-smart-sensing/perse-contact-human-sensor)
          - [PerSe® Control](https://www.semtech.com/products/perse-smart-sensing/perse-control-touch-proximity-sensor)
          - [IO Expanders](https://www.semtech.com/products/perse-smart-sensing/io-expanders)
    - [Broadcast Video](https://www.semtech.com/products/broadcast-video)
      
      ### Products Overview
      
      Award-winning solutions designed specifically to push real-world broadcast boundaries in performance, reach, power, and signal integrity while reducing time to market and design risks.
      
      [Read More](https://www.semtech.com/products/broadcast-video)
      
      
      
          - [AV Interface & Protocol Conversion](https://www.semtech.com/products/broadcast-video/av-interface-protocol-conversion)
          - [Configurable EQ/CD](https://www.semtech.com/products/broadcast-video/configurable-eq-cd)
          - [Cable Drivers](https://www.semtech.com/products/broadcast-video/cable-drivers)
          - [Cable Equalizers](https://www.semtech.com/products/broadcast-video/cable-equalizers)
          - [Crosspoints](https://www.semtech.com/products/broadcast-video/crosspoints)
          - [Receivers (Deserializers)](https://www.semtech.com/products/broadcast-video/receivers-deserializers)
          - [Reclocking](https://www.semtech.com/products/broadcast-video/reclocking)
          - [Transmitters (Serializers)](https://www.semtech.com/products/broadcast-video/transmitters-serializers)
    - [Power Management](https://www.semtech.com/products/power-management)
      
      ### Products Overview
      
      A pioneer in power management ICs across networking and industrial power, handheld power and automotive applications, Semtech leads the quest to enable a new class of greener, smarter and smaller end products.
      
      [Read More](https://www.semtech.com/products/power-management)
      
      
      
          - [EcoBrite LED Drivers](https://www.semtech.com/products/power-management/ecobrite-led-drivers)
          - [EcoSpeed DC-DC Converters](https://www.semtech.com/products/power-management/ecospeed-dc-dc-converters)
          - [FemtoBuck DC-DC Regulators and Controllers](https://www.semtech.com/products/power-management/femtobuck-dc-dc-regulators-controllers)
          - [FemtoSwitch Load Switch ICs](https://www.semtech.com/products/power-management/femtoswitch-switches)
          - [nanoSmart LDOs](https://www.semtech.com/products/power-management/nanosmart-ldos)
          - [Neo-Iso Solid State Relays](https://www.semtech.com/products/power-management/neo-iso-solid-state-relays)
          - [Special Functions](https://www.semtech.com/products/power-management/special-functions)
    - [Cellular IoT Solutions](https://www.semtech.com/products/cellular-iot-solutions)
      
      ### Products Overview
      
      Leading edge-to-Cloud solutions delivering the device, software and connectivity services needed to simplify and accelerate data-driven transformation with cellular IoT.
      
      [Read More](https://www.semtech.com/products/cellular-iot-solutions)
      
      
      
          - [Managed Connectivity](https://www.semtech.com/products/cellular-iot-solutions/managed-connectivity)
          - [Modules](https://www.semtech.com/products/cellular-iot-solutions/modules)
          - [Router Solutions](https://www.semtech.com/products/cellular-iot-solutions/router-solutions)
- [Technology](https://www.semtech.com/technology)
  
    - [Technology Overview](https://www.semtech.com/technology)
      
      ### Technology Overview
      
      Our highly differentiated, disruptive analog and mixed-signal semiconductors and advanced algorithms enable today's most innovative electronics within some of the fastest growing verticals and markets.
      
      [Read More](https://www.semtech.com/technology)
      
      
      
      ### Quick Links
      
          - [Related Applications](https://www.semtech.com/applications)
          - [LoRa White Papers & Infographics](https://www.semtech.com/lora/resources/lora-white-papers)
          - [Product Selector Guides](https://www.semtech.com/design-support/product-guides)
    - [LoRa® Wireless RF For The IoT](https://www.semtech.com/lora)
      
      ### LoRa Wireless RF For The IoT Overview
      
      LoRa is the de facto wireless platform of Internet of Things (IoT). Semtech's LoRa chipsets connect sensors to the Cloud and enable real-time communication of data and analytics that can be utilized to enhance efficiency and productivity.
      
      [Read More](https://www.semtech.com/lora)
      
      
      
          - [LoRa (PHY)](https://www.semtech.com/lora/what-is-lora)
          - [Benefits of LoRa](https://www.semtech.com/lora/why-lora)
          - [LoRaWAN® Standard](https://www.semtech.com/lora/lorawan-standard)
    - [PerSe® Smart Sensing](https://www.semtech.com/technology/perse)
      
      ### PerSe® Smart Sensing Overview
      
      Semtech's PerSe technology intelligently senses human presence for optimized connectivity and enhanced user experience.
      
      [Read More](https://www.semtech.com/technology/perse)
      
      
      
      ### Quick Links
      
          - [Infographic](https://info.semtech.com/perse-smart-sensing-infographic)
          - [Brochure](https://www.semtech.com/uploads/common/PerSe_One_Pager.pdf)
          - [Blogs](https://blog.semtech.com/topic/perse)
          - [Products](https://www.semtech.com/products/perse-smart-sensing)
    - [Tri-Edge™ PAM4 CDR](https://www.semtech.com/technology/tri-edge)
      
      ### Tri-Edge PAM4 CDR Overview
      
      Tri-Edge is a CDR platform optimized for PAM4 optical interconnect in next-generation 200G and 400G data center module and AOC applications.
      
      [Read More](https://www.semtech.com/technology/tri-edge)
      
      
      
      ### Quick Links
      
          - [Tri-Edge White Paper](https://info.semtech.com/en/tri-edge-white-paper)
          - [Product Selector Guide](https://www.semtech.com/uploads/design-support/Semtech_Optical_Product_Guide.pdf)
          - [Open Eye MSA](https://www.openeye-msa.org/)
    - [BlueRiver Platform For SDVoE™](https://www.semtech.com/technology/blueriver)
      
      ### BlueRiver Platform For SDVoE™
      
      BlueRiver AV-over-IP chipsets are the world’s only chipsets to transport uncompressed, zero-latency Ultra HD/4K HDR over standard Ethernet and are the foundation for Software Defined Video Over Ethernet (SDVoE) technology.
      
      [Read More](https://www.semtech.com/technology/blueriver)
      
      
      
          - [BlueRiver OVERVIEW](https://www.semtech.com/technology/blueriver)
          - [BlueRiver APPLICATIONS](https://www.semtech.com/technology/blueriver-applications)
          - [BlueRiver VERTICAL MARKETS](https://www.semtech.com/technology/blueriver-vertical-markets)
          - [SDVoE ALLIANCE®](https://www.semtech.com/technology/blueriver-sdvoe)
    - [Circuit Protection](https://www.semtech.com/technology/esd-protection)
      
      ### Circuit Protection Overview
      
      Semtech is leading the way in Transient Voltage Suppression (TVS) protection solutions that safeguard electronics systems against damage or latch-up caused by electrostatic discharge (ESD), lightning (surge), and other destructive voltage transients.
      
      [Read More](https://www.semtech.com/technology/esd-protection)
      
      
      
          - [Circuit Protection Overview](https://www.semtech.com/technology/esd-protection)
          - [Z-Platform](https://www.semtech.com/technology/z-platform)
- [Design Resources](https://www.semtech.com/design-support/)
  
    - [Design Resources Overview](https://www.semtech.com/design-support/)
      
      ### Design Resources Overview
      
      Semtech places a high importance on delivering superior design support and provides a wealth of tools and resources with the goal of shortening your time to revenue for your new product introductions.
      
      [Read More](https://www.semtech.com/design-support/)
      
      
      
          - [Product Guides](https://www.semtech.com/design-support/product-guides)
          - [Development Support Documentation](https://www.semtech.com/design-support/development-support-documents/)
          - [Parametric Search](https://www.semtech.com/design-support/parametric-search)
          - [Quality Assurance](https://www.semtech.com/quality/search-pb-lead-free-rohs-green)
          - [LoRa GitHub](https://github.com/LoRa-Net)
          - [LoRa PCB Design Review](https://info.semtech.com/pcb-design-review-service)
          - [LoRa Calculator](https://www.semtech.com/design-support/lora-calculator)
          - [LoRaWAN Academy and Training](https://learn.semtech.com/)
          - [Product Cross Reference Search](https://www.semtech.com/design-support/cross-reference-search)
          - [Frequently Asked Questions](https://www.semtech.com/design-support/faq)
          - [mySemtech Document Portal](https://semtech.my.site.com/DP/)
    - [IoT Applications](https://www.semtech.com/applications)
      
      ### Internet of Things
      
      Award-winning LoRa Technology, ESD and surge protection, and smart control platforms for Internet of Things-enabled devices and low power, wide area network (LPWAN) infrastructure.
      
      [Read More](https://www.semtech.com/applications)
      
      
      
          - - [Smart Agriculture](https://www.semtech.com/applications/internet-of-things/smart-agriculture)
                  - [Smart Buildings](https://www.semtech.com/applications/internet-of-things/smart-building-automation)
                  - [Smart Cities](https://www.semtech.com/applications/internet-of-things/smart-cities)
                  - [Smart Emergency](https://www.semtech.com/applications/internet-of-things/smart-emergency-response)
                  - [Smart Environment](https://www.semtech.com/applications/internet-of-things/smart-environment)
                  - [Smart Healthcare](https://www.semtech.com/applications/internet-of-things/smart-healthcare)
                  - [Smart Home](https://www.semtech.com/applications/internet-of-things/smart-home-automation)
                  - [Smart Industrial](https://www.semtech.com/applications/internet-of-things/smart-industrial-iot)
                  - [Smart Logistics](https://www.semtech.com/applications/internet-of-things/logistics-supply-chain-management)
                  - [Smart Utilities](https://www.semtech.com/applications/internet-of-things/smart-utilities)
                  - [Smart Consumer](https://www.semtech.com/applications/internet-of-things/smart-consumer)
    - [Professional AV Applications](https://www.semtech.com/applications/pro-av-applications)
      
      ### Professional AV
      
      AptoVision BlueRiver™ Technology uses commercial-off-the-shelf Ethernet networks to deliver higher performance, flexibility, and scalability to the Pro AV industry.
      
      [Read More](https://www.semtech.com/applications/pro-av-applications)
      
      
      
          - - [AV Over IP](https://www.semtech.com/applications/pro-av-applications/av-over-ip)
                  - [BYOM Video Conferencing](https://www.semtech.com/applications/pro-av-applications/byom-video-conferencing)
                  - [HDMI Extender](https://www.semtech.com/applications/pro-av-applications/hdmi-extension)
                  - [HDMI Wall Plates](https://www.semtech.com/applications/pro-av-applications/hdmi-wallplates)
                  - [Hybrid AV Distribution](https://www.semtech.com/applications/pro-av-applications/hybrid-av-distribution)
                  - [KVM Switches](https://www.semtech.com/applications/pro-av-applications/kvm-switches)
                  - [Multiviewers](https://www.semtech.com/applications/pro-av-applications/multiviewers)
                  - [Point-to-Point Matrix Switching](https://www.semtech.com/applications/pro-av-applications/point-to-point-matrix-switching)
                  - [Presentation Switchers](https://www.semtech.com/applications/pro-av-applications/presentation-switchers)
                  - [SDI Equipment](https://www.semtech.com/applications/pro-av-applications/sdi-equipment)
                  - [SDVoE™ Integration](https://www.semtech.com/applications/pro-av-applications/sdvoe-integration)
                  - [Smart Display Modules (SDM)](https://www.semtech.com/applications/pro-av-applications/smart-display-modules-sdm)
                  - [USB-C](https://www.semtech.com/applications/pro-av-applications/usb-c)
                  - [Video Walls](https://www.semtech.com/applications/pro-av-applications/video-walls)
    - [Other Applications](https://www.semtech.com/applications)
      
      ### Other Applications
      
      Award-winning LoRa Technology, ESD and surge protection, and smart control platforms for Internet of Things-enabled devices and low power, wide area network (LPWAN) infrastructure.
      
      [Read More](https://www.semtech.com/applications)
      
      
      
          - [Automotive](https://www.semtech.com/applications/automotive-apps) 
                  - [Advanced Driver Assistance Systems](https://www.semtech.com/applications/automotive-apps/adas-body-electronics)
                  - [Automotive Battery Management Systems](https://www.semtech.com/applications/automotive-apps/automotive-battery-management-systems)
                  - [Automotive USB Charger](https://www.semtech.com/applications/automotive-apps/dashboard-electronics-usb-charging)
                  - [Infotainment Unit](https://www.semtech.com/applications/automotive-apps/navigation-infotainment)
                  - [Remote Keyless Entry](https://www.semtech.com/applications/automotive-apps/remote-keyless-entry)
                  - [Telematics Unit](https://www.semtech.com/applications/automotive-apps/telematics-unit)
          - [Broadcast Video](https://www.semtech.com/applications/broadcast-video-applications) 
                  - [Broadcast Equipment](https://www.semtech.com/applications/broadcast-video-applications/broadcast-equipment)
          - [Consumer Electronics](https://www.semtech.com/applications/consumer-electronics) 
                  - [Mobile Devices](https://www.semtech.com/applications/consumer-electronics/mobile-devices)
                  - [Wearables](https://www.semtech.com/applications/consumer-electronics/wearables)
                  - [TVs, Set Top Boxes, Monitors](https://www.semtech.com/applications/consumer-electronics/tvs-set-top-boxes-monitors)
                  - [Laptops, Tablets, Computers](https://www.semtech.com/applications/consumer-electronics/laptops-tablets-computers)
                  - [Appliances & White Goods](https://www.semtech.com/applications/consumer-electronics/appliances-white-goods)
                  - [Computers, Printers, Scanners](https://www.semtech.com/applications/consumer-electronics/computers-printers-scanners)
          - [Industrial](https://www.semtech.com/applications/industrial-applications) 
                  - [Medical Equipment](https://www.semtech.com/applications/industrial-applications/medical-equipment)
                  - [Factory Automation](https://www.semtech.com/applications/industrial-applications/factory-automation)
                  - [Energy, Smart Grids, Smart Metering](https://www.semtech.com/applications/industrial-applications/energy-smart-grids-smart-metering)
                  - [Surveillance](https://www.semtech.com/applications/industrial-applications/surveillance)
                  - [Test & Measurement](https://www.semtech.com/applications/industrial-applications/test-measurement)
                  - [Power Tools](https://www.semtech.com/applications/industrial-applications/power-tools)
          - [Infrastructure](https://www.semtech.com/applications/infrastructure) 
                  - [Data Centers](https://www.semtech.com/applications/infrastructure/enterprise-datacenters)
                  - [Passive Optical Networks / Fiber to the Home](https://www.semtech.com/applications/infrastructure/enterprise-passive-optical-networks-fiber-to-the-home)
                  - [Broadband](https://www.semtech.com/applications/infrastructure/enterprise-broadband)
          - [Networking & Optical Communications](https://www.semtech.com/applications/networking-communication) 
                  - [Broadband](https://www.semtech.com/applications/networking-communication/broadband)
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 12 August, 2020    3 min read

# LoRa®-based Contact Tracing to Help Businesses Reopen Safely

 Roelof Koopmans

In many parts of the world the COVID-19 lock-downs are gradually opening up, requiring businesses to improve facility hygiene and protect itself from a virus outbreak. Many companies – in particular, factories, distribution centers, and logistics warehouses where people work very closely to each other – will also have to revisit its business processes. Yet, businesses of all sizes must now create [safe and secure workspaces](https://blog.semtech.com/the-building-block-for-safe-secure-workplaces-in-the-covid-era) to mitigate infection risk and safeguard the health of workers.

[![DOWNLOAD THE WORKPLACE SAFETY  INFOGRAPHIC](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/2507363/9fcd5a6b-062c-46cb-ae17-ddcc02159a43.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/2507363/9fcd5a6b-062c-46cb-ae17-ddcc02159a43)

From a legal perspective, employers may be liable if they do not take sufficient measures to protect workers against virus-spreading within a company environment. In the U.S., several states are proposing legislation that presume individuals contracted COVID at work unless their employer can “rebut” this presumption. Additionally, at least 14 states have already taken action to extend workers’ compensation coverage to include COVID-19 as a work-related illness. These examples illustrate the pending impact the coronavirus crisis will have on businesses.

### Contact Tracing & Proximity Detection

Enterprises are turning to technology and the Internet of Things (IoT) to aid in the challenge to protect staff, facilitate early detection and enable the quarantining of colleagues who have come in contact with a coworker who has tested positive for COVID-19.

In several countries, manufacturers are developing and testing contact tracing apps for smart phones. While a digital method is faster and less prone to subjective data than manual interview-based contact tracing, these “big brother” apps are proving controversial because data is being collected and stored about an individual’s whereabouts 24 hours a day.

A better alternative is a [proximity sensing solution](https://www.microshare.io/universal-contract-tracing-solution/) that works only within the perimeter of a company’s premises. Workers can carry a badge or wear a wristband or lanyard, which includes a proximity sensor and a combined Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), Ultra Wide Band (UWB) or LoRa® receiver that detects whether two devices have been closer than six feet, and communicates data with a LoRa-based gateway within the building.

From a data security perspective, there are several alternative solutions. Some of the solution providers store the sensitive data in a secure application that only can be accessed by authorized human resources staff of the employer if an employee has tested positive for COVID-19. In this situation, the employer has the ability to quickly trace all devices which have been in close contact with the infected worker and send these devices a message that the corresponding worker has to begin quarantine and be tested for Coronavirus. There is no direct association between the devices and the workers in the system.

A contact tracing solution is like life insurance for a company against spreading of the virus on its campus.

Another feature of proximity sensing ensures social distancing. The devices can send a vibrating alert or notification to workers when too close to each other.

These tools are readily available and will greatly help to avoid infections. According to estimates from [International Data Corp](https://www.idc.com/), a market research firm, the market for contact tracing technologies could soon be worth $4 billion annually in the U.S.

[![EXPLORE COVID-19 SOLUTIONS FROM THE ECOSYSTEM](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/2507363/34eaf0c7-e173-4c5c-b7d3-9d4aa95c7fe8.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/2507363/34eaf0c7-e173-4c5c-b7d3-9d4aa95c7fe8)

### How Digital Contact Tracing Works

Available IoT solutions for [contact tracing](https://www.actility.com/actility-releases-a-proximity-detection-contact-tracing-solution-for-covid-19/) are based on a combination of BLE, UWB or LoRa for proximity sensing, and LoRa-based networks, such as those based on the LoRaWAN® protocol, for long range communication between the sensors and one or more gateway (base-stations) installed on the premises.

Since the LoRaWAN protocol leverages the unlicensed spectrum, companies can install a private network by themselves, similar to Wi-Fi networks. A benefit of LoRaWAN networks is that coverage can traverse concrete walls and floors and the distance between gateways can be several 100 meters, enabling deep network coverage without the much greater number of access points required for Wi-Fi based solutions.

Employees can bring their [wearable device](https://smartmimic.com/mimic-s) to work with confidence that their privacy is protected because the only environment in which they are traceable is within company premises. When they go outside the company, the sensors will not be in coverage of the enterprise private LoRa-based network, removing the risk of inadvertent tracing of workers at home or anywhere outside the office. Sensor data can be collected and stored in a secure way and can be configured to automatically delete data after two weeks when the information is no longer relevant for contact tracing.

There are several LoRa-based solution providers that offer digital contact tracing solutions, such as Actility, Careband, Microshare, Phidata, SmartConnect, SmartMimic, SoluM, and others. Explore [COVID-19 solutions from the LoRa ecosystem](https://www.semtech.com/lora/lora-applications/covid-19) on our website.

### Easily Deploy a LoRa-based Network and Expand Smart Building Applications

The underlying wireless technology for contact tracing solutions are LoRa devices provided by Semtech. The LoRaWAN specification, managed by the LoRa Alliance®, is a low power, wide-area networking protocol designed to wirelessly connect battery-operated “things” to the Internet.

Once a company has built a private LoRa-based network, it can also leverage the network for other [smart Building applications](https://www.semtech.com/lora/lora-applications/smart-buildings). For instance, [occupancy sensing](https://switzer.cloud/en/1001e) of shared work desks and meeting rooms could allow staff and employer to know which are in use or free at any given moment. Another compelling use case is restroom cleaning based on actually usage, or [soap dispensers alerting](https://www.jvd.fr/smart-cleaning/) when empty. The monitoring of [air quality](https://www.decentlab.com/products) is also becoming ever more important. All of these smart building use cases can operate on the same LoRa-based gateways installed for proximity sensing.

With integrated technologies and shared infrastructure approach, businesses can gain the full benefits of a digital transformation while specifically addressing their immediate requirements for safe and secure workplaces during the COVID era.

Download a checklist to learn how your business can prepare for reopening in the post-COVID era.

[![DOWNLOAD CHECKLIST](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/2507363/71311866-dc66-465b-acd8-f7738e8febaa.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/2507363/71311866-dc66-465b-acd8-f7738e8febaa)

 

*Semtech*®*, the Semtech logo, LoRa*®*, and LoRaWAN® are registered trademarks or service marks of Semtech Corporation or its affiliates.* *Other product or service names mentioned herein may be the trademarks of their respective owners.*

---

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<https://blog.semtech.com/smarter-facilities-management-with-lorawan>

<https://blog.semtech.com/smarter-facilities-management-with-lorawan>[Smarter Facilities Management With LoRaWAN®](https://blog.semtech.com/smarter-facilities-management-with-lorawan)

December 10, 2019

<https://blog.semtech.com/lora-enabled-smart-home-building-innovations-at-ces-and-beyond>

<https://blog.semtech.com/lora-enabled-smart-home-building-innovations-at-ces-and-beyond>[LoRa-based Smart Home & Building Innovations at CES](https://blog.semtech.com/lora-enabled-smart-home-building-innovations-at-ces-and-beyond)

January 16, 2019

<https://blog.semtech.com/5g-lorawan-and-smart-cities-at-mwc19>

<https://blog.semtech.com/5g-lorawan-and-smart-cities-at-mwc19>[5G, LoRaWAN and Smart Cities at MWC](https://blog.semtech.com/5g-lorawan-and-smart-cities-at-mwc19)

May 6, 2019

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