Lone working, also known as lone worker or solo work, refers to a situation where an employee works alone, without direct supervision or immediate assistance from colleagues or supervisors. This type of work arrangement is common in many industries, including healthcare, transportation, construction, and retail. However, lone workers face unique challenges and hazards that can put their safety and well-being at risk. In this article, we will discuss the importance of lone worker safety, the risks lone workers face, and the control measures that can be implemented to protect them.
2: Your lone workers probably aren’t telling you if they’ve felt unsafe
Lone workers can be at increased risk of violence and aggression, and the total number of incidents is likely to be under-reported. The latest edition of the Lone Worker Landscape Report showed that only around a third (36%) of lone workers talk to their employer when they have felt unsafe at work. However, most companies are unaware, with nearly all (92%) believing that their lone workers are speaking to them regularly about any incidents and concerns.
3: Most companies have experienced a lone worker incident in the last three years
Incidents involving lone workers are common across all industries, with 68% of companies having experienced an incident involving a lone worker in the past three years. A fifth of these incidents were described as severe or very severe. Worryingly, nearly a quarter of lone workers also report feeling unsafe at least once a year.
4: Your safety communications are not as effective as you think
The good news is that over 95% of companies have policies and procedures in place to protect their lone workers. The bad news: not all your employees know about them. Research indicates that as many as 1 in 5 lone workers are not aware of their employer’s lone worker policy. A recent study has also shown that managers often overestimate the effectiveness of their safety communications and training, which can leave some lone working employees at risk.
5: The use of lone worker safety solutions is on the increase
When it comes to protecting lone workers, the majority of businesses are leaving manual check-in calls and simple panic buttons behind. According to a new research report from Berg Insight, the number of lone workers using connected safety solutions in North America is expected to double, reach close to a million by 2027. Connected safety solutions like EcoOnline’s Lone Worker Solution, utilize the latest mobile and GPS technology to provide an easier and more reliable way to keep lone workers safe.
What is lone working?
Lone working is a work arrangement where an employee works alone, either at a fixed location or in a mobile setting, without direct supervision or immediate assistance from colleagues or supervisors. Lone workers can be found in various industries, including healthcare, transportation, construction, and retail. According to OSHA’s General Duty Clause, employers have a responsibility to protect the health and safety of lone workers, just like any other employee. Lone working can be hazardous, and employers must take steps to identify and mitigate the risks associated with this type of work arrangement.
Lone worker hazards
Lone workers face a range of hazards, including physical, environmental, and psychosocial risks. Some of the most common lone worker hazards include slips, trips, and falls, chemical fumes and electricity, lifting heavy objects, vehicular accidents, and heavy machinery accidents. Additionally, lone workers may be at risk of medical emergencies, such as heart attacks or strokes, and may not have immediate access to emergency services. Invisible hazards, such as mental health risks and physical violence, can also affect lone workers. Employers must conduct risk assessments to identify the specific hazards that lone workers may face and implement control measures to mitigate these risks.
Identifying risk
Identifying risks is a critical step in protecting lone workers. Employers must conduct risk assessments to determine the potential risks that lone workers may face. This includes identifying specific risks, such as working at heights, working with hazardous materials, or working in confined spaces. Employers must also consider the risks associated with remote locations, such as limited access to emergency services or supervision. By identifying the risks, employers can implement control measures to mitigate them and ensure the safety and well-being of lone workers.
Control measures
Control measures are essential to protecting lone workers. Employers can implement a range of control measures, including providing training and supervision, implementing a buddy system, and using wearable technology or panic buttons to enable immediate help in case of an emergency. Employers can also establish procedures for regular check-ins and supervision to ensure that lone workers are safe and well. Additionally, employers can provide lone workers with access to emergency services and support, such as first aid kits and emergency contact information. By implementing these control measures, employers can reduce the risks associated with lone working and ensure the safety and well-being of their employees.
