Top Communication Methods For Radio & Earpiece Users

Many businesses are using two-way radio networks these days. It’s not hard to see why. 

Two-way radio communication is quick, instant, and highly efficient. There are no call costs, or line rental, few limits on group numbers, and safety features included as-standard on most models. 

Two-way radios also save money over the long term, in addition to being very reliable, and easy-to-use. They are also far more durable and secure than most other forms of communication. 

There’s never been a better time to upgrade your company’s communication network. The following is a guide for those who wish to do just that.

1. Using A Two-Way Radio

Two-way radios allow for real-time communication between colleagues, helping people to manage everything from average business days to security risks, as well as emergency situations. 

Staff can interact with one another instantly, without needing to locate and answer phones (which could be on silent, or lack signal strength). Improved communication has been shown to positively impact teamwork, staff confidence, and strategic options, as well as improving workplace safety overall. 

Two-way radio usage is basic, but built around the formation and cultivation of good, consistent habits. Practices such as keeping batteries charged at all times (and having spares to hand), maintaining a consistent, comfortable volume level (ensuring that all communication is quick and clear), and always keeping radios on the right channel are of paramount importance. 

Ensuring that every user has been adequately trained to use their radios properly (so that correct working practice is always observed) is also a must.

To use a PTT (Push-To-Talk) radio:

• Ensure that the channel is clear before use. 
• Think about what you need to say (how can you say it as quickly and clearly as possible?)
• Push and hold the PTT button. 
• Take a short pause before speaking. 
• Speak clearly and concisely, holding the microphone 10 - 15 CM from your mouth. 
• Be patient, and wait for a reply (remember, two-way radios only allow one user to speak at a time, so try not to interrupt one another). 

That’s really all there is to it.

2. Two-Way Radio Etiquette

Two-way radio etiquette is an important part of using a two-way communications system. However, what is meant by the term ‘two-way radio etiquette?’

Put simply, two-way radio etiquette consists of a set of tried-and-true, universally-adopted practices designed to make radio use as easy and efficient as possible. 

In radio terms, good etiquette ensures quick, reliable communication, high levels or productivity, and few (if any) misunderstandings. In emergency situations, it can even save lives. 

It is GOOD two-way etiquette to:

• Wait for the channel to clear before pushing the button or speaking. 
• Keep your messages clear and concise.
• Identify yourself (using call signs, where appropriate), as well as the person you wish to address. 
• Use radio lingo, such as saying ‘over’ to indicate that the message is finished, ‘out’ to end a discussion, or ‘Roger/copy’ when the message has been understood. 
• Have clear and workable health and safety policies in place, so that everyone knows what to do in an emergency. 

It is BAD two-way etiquette to: 

• Interrupt other users. 
• Talk too much, or unnecessarily. 
• Fail to identify yourself, or say who the message is for. 
• Respond to a message that isn’t intended for you. 
• Mumble or talk too close to the microphone.
• Be impatient (even in a crisis situation). 
• Transmit sensitive or confidential information. 

Perhaps the most important aspect of radio etiquette is to understand, and use, ‘radio lingo’. Radio lingo is a set of terms and phrases employed by practically every English-speaking two-way radio user around the world.

Commonly used radio lingo includes, ‘over’, ‘out’, and ‘Roger/copy’. Other useful, widely-used phrases include ‘stand by’ (meaning, ‘I hear you, but am unable to respond right now’), ‘say again’ (‘please repeat the message’), and ‘go ahead’ (‘I’m listening and ready to respond’). 

It is also advisable to replace ‘yes’ and ‘no’ with the words ‘affirmative’ and ‘negative’, as these are easier to understand over radio, which cuts down on potential confusion. 

3. About Radio Networks

A two-way radio network is a closed communication network that exists on a particular frequency, connecting a number of selected devices. Messages can be conveyed instantly, and can be set to ‘one-to-one’ or ‘one-to-all’ modes. 

Radio networks are a popular choice for businesses with multiple mobile employees that operate within a fixed local area. 

Relevant examples include security teams, warehouse or storage space workers, and construction crews. However, these are by no means the only professionals who use radios at work. 

Two-way radios typically operate well over distances of about a mile, or a mile and a half. In cases wherein the operational distance will be greater than this, a signal amplifier may be required. For larger buildings, a booster or repeater may be used to amplify the signal

Where mobile networks can become overwhelmed with traffic, radio networks continue to operate effectively with up to 30-50 members. Too many members will be detrimental to a network’s efficiency and functionality. At this point, separate channels will be allocated to different sectors, and a controller will be appointed to liaise with the controllers of other sectors. 

The orange button found on many professional-range radios serves a critical purpose in emergencies. When pressed, this "emergency button" overrides all ongoing communications, granting the user a direct line to broadcast their message to everyone within their sector.

4. Channel Allocation

Channels are typically allocated by department or sector. So, a security team will operate on a separate channel from, say, builders working elsewhere on a construction site. 

Often, there is a designated channel for management, another for maintenance, another for emergencies, and so on. 

Independent contractors, such as security firms, often operate on separate networks entirely distinct from a company's main system. Typically, this setup is not an issue, as they use their own frequencies. However, it’s crucial to ensure these frequencies do not interfere with those on the primary network. Additionally, contractors may require access to a shared channel for seamless communication with the main network.

5. Using A Radio Earpiece

There are many benefits of using an earpiece as part of your two-way radio setup. 

Earpieces ensure that radio messages are easier to hear. By blocking outside noises (such as traffic, people talking, construction noise, etc), earpieces enable messages to be heard more easily. All earpieces will help in this regard, and some even feature active noise cancellation (ANC) technology to aid the user further. 

Earpieces offer an increased level of privacy, and discretion. Use of an earpiece greatly decreases the chances of important, or sensitive information being overheard by people close to the recipient. 

Earpieces also facilitate hands-free communication, making them a great option for those who may require one or both hands free to perform their duties. 

Earpieces act as an extension of the radio itself. As a result, their operation is similar, and just as easy as using a two-way. Most earpieces will feature a PTT button that, once connected to the radio, will replace its function. Operating it is as simple as pressing and holding the new button, and observing the protocol described above. 

Radio earpieces are available in overt and covert forms. ‘Overt’ earpieces are just regular earpieces, while their ‘covert’ equivalents are designed to offer a higher level of visual discretion, making the presence of communication equipment harder to detect. 

Wearing a two-way radio earpiece is as simple as sliding the cable under your shirt, attaching the earpiece to the radio, and then firmly attaching the earpiece to your ear. 

Access to the PTT button is vital, so you should ensure that it remains within easy reach at all times. 

6. Radio Communication Tips

Finally, here is a collection of tips found elsewhere in the article. 

• Ensure that employees are trained in the proper use of radios, as well as emergency policies and protocols. 
• Keep all radio messages short and concise. 
• Identify yourself and the person with whom you wish to speak BEFORE relaying any messages. 
• Have the message clear in your head BEFORE attempting to transmit it to anyone. 
• Use ‘radio lingo’ whenever appropriate. 
• Be patient. Allow the other user time to respond. 
• Avoid using technical jargon or confusing terminology. 
• Always practice good radio etiquette.