Lone Working:
Understanding the Risks and Keeping Solo Workers Safe
In today’s
fast-changing world of work, not everyone operates as part of a team. Many
people work alone, away from colleagues or direct supervision — and while this
independence has its advantages, it also brings unique safety challenges.
Whether it’s a security
guard on a night shift, a maintenance technician visiting remote sites,
or a social worker meeting clients offsite, lone working is becoming
increasingly common across industries. Understanding the risks involved and
managing them effectively is essential to keeping these workers safe.
Who Are Lone
Workers?
Lone workers can be
found in almost every sector. Some typical examples include:
- Employees working alone in small
workshops, kiosks, or warehouses
- Cleaners or security staff working outside
regular business hours
- Maintenance personnel or engineers
carrying out installations away from their main base
- Drivers, delivery personnel, estate
agents, and social workers providing services offsite
- Staff working in remote areas of large
facilities or construction sites
Essentially, anyone
working without direct supervision or nearby colleagues falls under the
category of a lone worker.
Why Lone Workers
Face Higher Risks
While the hazards
faced by lone workers are similar to those of others in the same role, their level
of risk is often greater. The main reason is simple — they’re on their own.
If an emergency
occurs, such as a sudden illness, accident, or aggressive encounter, help isn’t
immediately available. Communication with colleagues or supervisors can also be
more difficult, especially in isolated or remote areas.
For example, a
warehouse operator working alone may not have anyone nearby to assist if an
injury occurs. Similarly, a field technician might lose radio contact in a
remote location. These small moments of isolation can quickly turn into serious
safety concerns if not properly managed.
Legal and Moral
Responsibilities
There’s no general law
that prohibits working alone. However, employers have a legal and moral duty
to ensure that lone workers are not exposed to higher risks than those working
with others.
In some situations,
such as working in confined spaces, the law specifically requires at
least two people to be present — one to carry out the work and another to act
as a rescuer if needed.
Employers must conduct
a specific risk assessment to identify potential hazards, evaluate
whether the person is medically and physically suited to work alone, and ensure
adequate control measures are in place. Particular attention should also be
given to vulnerable workers, such as young employees, women, or those
with health conditions.
Safe Procedures for
Lone Working
To effectively manage
lone working risks, employers should develop a safe system of work based
on thorough risk assessment. Here are some key control measures that can help:
- Regular check-ins: Supervisors should make periodic visits
or calls to ensure the worker’s safety.
- Communication systems: Maintain consistent voice contact through
phones or radios.
- Automatic warning devices: Use technology that sends alerts if the
worker fails to respond within a set time.
- Emergency response procedures: Ensure there’s a clear plan in place for
medical or security emergencies.
- First aid arrangements: Provide mobile first aid kits and
training for handling minor injuries.
- End-of-shift confirmation: Implement systems to confirm lone workers
have returned home or to base safely.
Technology can also
play a crucial role — smartphone apps, GPS trackers, and wearable devices can
help employers monitor lone workers in real time and respond quickly to any
issues.
Conclusion: Safety
Should Never Be a Solo Effort
Lone working doesn’t
have to mean working without support. With the right planning, communication,
and technology, employers can ensure that every lone worker remains safe,
confident, and connected.
By carrying out proper
risk assessments, setting up reliable communication systems, and fostering a
culture of safety awareness, organizations can protect their most valuable
resource — their people.
Because at the end of
the day, no one should ever feel truly alone when it comes to their safety.
