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Frequently Asked Questions

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  • Who can the codes?:

    The codes can be scanned by anyone with a smart phone.

  • How is tracking done if nobody scans the codes?:

    The codes must be scanned to update the asset location. If they are not scanned then the location will not be updated. However; it is technically possible for smart CCTV or drones to scan the codes too. Some organisations use drones like SPOT from Boston Dynamics we have had several conversations with Boston Dynamics and they have confirmed that Spot's cameras and other standard hardware would allow it to complete this task. On large projects with a large number of assets to track this could be a viable solution.

    Presently in the UK and most other countries aviation laws prevent the use of flying drones outside of the operators 'line-of-sight' (BLOS) Until this changes it will be difficult for flight based drones to do this work.

  • Is this passive tracking?:

    Thats correct - our standard tags use a passive system that requires work to be done by a separate device, such as a smartphone, drone or other passing camera with the capability to know it's own geographic location. It is this second device that infers the location of the asset bearing the tag, and contacts our database via the internet to update the record.

  • Is there a solution that does not need someone to scan the tag?:

    Yes. We do have an 'active' tag solution. This is a more sophisticated system and requires a set of equipment that provides much higher resolution on the location and update frequency of assets.

    PushGeo active tracking system uses two devices. One is the tag which is electronic and has a long lasting battery, and the second is a scanning device that continuously monitors and updates the location of 'visible assets'. This system is best used with multiple scanning devices. We normally recommend placing them at access points such as in security booths, near key work areas, and in vehicles that regularly pass through all work areas - such as facilities or welfare vehicles.

  • Can we use this as evidence in applications?:

    Yes. One of the main purposes we advocate for PushGeo is the ability to show that equipment and materials are present on site - for sub-contractors this often means they could be charged for in a monthly application for payment - subject to the specific sub-contract arrangements.

    The same is true of claims, such as for compensation events (NEC contract types) or Variations (JCT contract types). In these cases it is often important to understand what equipment was involved in the event and for how long. PushGeo is specificaly positioned to help suport these claims.

  • Can I demand that suppliers use these tags?:

    In principle yes. One of the key objectives we advocate for PushGeo is use by Main Contractors as a requirement within their sub-contracts. Where this is implimented - it provides a mechanism for Main Contractors and their suppliers to transparently and fairly report on the location and availability of equipment and materials. This leads to less arguments and could result in less conflict within projects.

  • Can we put these on people?:

    Yes - but proceed with care and caution.

    The tags can be used as part of control systems related to people and access. By placing individuals into the asset database, and then adding their codes to personel badges - the system can be used to control access and also to provide timely information.

    PushGeo was founded by Positive Frontiers which is a company committed to long term improvements in construciton and wider society - PushGeo as product aims to answer many difficulties - including the contextual availability of information to people and about people. You can read a lot more about use cases realted to people in our PushGeo and Humans page.

  • Is this a security system?:

    No. It is no secret that PushGeo is a mechanism that tracks equipment. So if an asset is stolen it is more than likely a thief would remove the tracking tag. In addition, as soon as the asset is moved - without scanning the tag at the new location there would be no way to know where it has gone.

    We are working on ways to improve the potential for PushGeo as a security solution - and there are promising opportunities - but it is not yet a reliable security system.

  • Where can we get more tags?:

    We try to ensure we make the best tags and that PushGeo offers a complete and economic service - this include providing tags for you. To provide the best service we need to understand the environment your tags are being used in and what you are placing them on. Once we know this we can ensure that tags provided are reliable and resistant to the evironment they will be working in.

    The passive tags are a simple QR code. These can be generated by most label printers or print services, so you can get your tags from anywhere.

    The active electronic tags are bespoke and can only be distributed by PushGeo.

  • Can the tags damage our assets?:

    We will work with you to discover exactly what you are putting the tags on. This includes the type of materials and the method of fixing. However if the wrong solution is selected by us or you - or if the information provided about the article bearing the tag, or the environment it is working in - is different, it is possible for the tag to cause damage to the article.

    Damage is rare and it's also a little subjective. Some customers have opted for hard metal tags and rivets - in this case clearly the drill holes made for the rivets could be considered 'damage' but it is accepted by the customer. In other cases the adhesive on some tags has reacted with the paint on articles - which is why it is important to ensure you provide good information to PushGeo when ordering tags.

  • Are all the tags the same?:

    No. Not all tags fit all requirements. We certainly sell a lot more of our basic tag because it is low cost and very effective in most cases. But sometimes the environment or assets require different tags. Some may need to be more discreet, perhaps they will be in a cold environment or a hot environment - there are lots of reasons why you may need a particular type of tag.

    PushGeo will always work with you to ensure that we can offer the most cost effective and fully functional tag to suit your needs.

  • Can the tags be moved maliciously or by mistake?:

    It's possible, depending on the type of tag used it could, concievably, be moved to a different asset to upset the system for malicious purposes. It is much less common for this to occur by simple mistake. To avoid this it is important to choose the right tag and to remember that this is not a security system - suitable security should always be established at construction sites.