Ensuring Safety for Lone Workers

1. Involvement of Lone Workers

Active Participation in Risk Assessment

During the risk assessment process for lone workers, their active involvement is essential. They possess valuable insights into the work process, enhancing the thoroughness and effectiveness of the assessment.

2. Wider Consultation on Health and Safety

Talk to All Employees

Consultation on health and safety matters should encompass all employees, including lone workers and their safety representatives. Their input serves as a vital source of information and advice, helping to identify hazards and select appropriate control measures.

3. Benefits of Effective Consultation

Enhanced Workplace Safety

Research indicates that workplaces with effective consultation practices tend to be safer and healthier. Collaborative problem-solving and addressing legal obligations boost employee commitment to implementing safety decisions.

4. Equal Risk Consideration for All Employees

Equal Protection for Lone Workers

Lone workers should not face higher risks than other employees. This may necessitate additional risk-control measures, accounting for both routine work and foreseeable emergencies such as fires, equipment failures, illnesses, and accidents.

5. Identifying Situations Requiring Lone Workers

Identify and Assess Situations

Employers must identify situations where individuals work alone. Questions should be asked, risks assessed, and control measures put in place to mitigate these risks. Ensure an effective risk assessment process.

6. Implementing Control Measures

Examples of Control Measures

Control measures may include instruction, training, supervision, and the provision of suitable protective equipment. When hazards are identified, steps should be taken to address and reduce them through control measures.

7. Addressing Unavoidable Risks

Dealing with Unavoidable Hazards

If it's impossible to eliminate a hazard, consider alternative controls or preventive measures to reduce risk. Preventing access to hazards is also a viable option.

8. Employing Safety Tools

Use of Panic Alarms

For situations where lone working may not be entirely safe, issuing panic alarms to workers can be a valuable protective measure. Ensure their accessibility and functionality.

9. Coordination with Other Employers

Collaboration with Other Employers

When lone workers are operating at another employer's workplace, ensure that information regarding risks and control measures is communicated between both employers for a comprehensive safety approach.

10. Industry-Specific Regulations

Awareness of Industry Laws

Employers should be aware of any industry-specific regulations related to lone working, such as supervision in diving operations, vehicles carrying explosives, or fumigation work. These regulations must be adhered to.

11. Ongoing Control Measure Review

Regular Review of Risk Assessments

Control measures should be consistently monitored and risk assessments periodically reviewed to ensure their continued adequacy and effectiveness in protecting lone workers.