Establishing safe working for lone workers is no different from organising the safety of other employees.

Guidance notes from HSE say employers need to know the law and standards which apply to their work activities and then assess whether the requirements can be met by people working alone.

Lone workers face particular problems. They should not be at more risk than other employees. This may require extra risk-control measures. Questions to ask include:

1. Does the workplace present a special risk to the lone worker?
2. Is there a risk of violence?
3. Are women especially at risk if they work alone?
4. Are young workers especially at risk if they work alone?
5. Is the person medically fit and suitable to work alone?

Check that lone workers have no medical conditions which make them unsuitable for working alone. Seek medical advice if necessary. Consider both routine work and foreseeable emergencies which may impose additional physical and mental burdens on the individual.

To avoid panic reactions in unusual situations, training is critical Lone workers need to be sufficiently experienced and to understand the risks and precautions fully.

Employers should set the limits to what can and cannot be done while working alone. They should ensure employees are competent to deal with circumstances which are new, unusual or beyond the scope of training, eg when to stop work and seek advice from a supervisor and how to handle aggression.

Supervision can help to ensure that employees understand the risks associated with their work and that the necessary safety precautions are carried out.

To discuss a lone working project contact us or call 01582 792875