How to Manage Your Lone Workers
Technology

How to Manage Your Lone Workers

A lone worker is a worker who works alone without direct or close supervision. This puts these people at greater risk of accidents or even violence. By law, there are a number of health and safety issues that need to be considered when allowing a person to work alone. It is the employer’s responsibility to ensure that these rules are followed. Any employer must ensure the health and safety of all employees, including people who come into contact with their work environment, such as freelancers or contractors. Separate risk assessments should be carried out for single workers.

Lonely working professions

There are a number of situations in which a person can work alone.

For example, those who work in

* Permanent establishment;

* Premises such as a shop, kiosk or gas station

* Home environment

* Factory or warehouse

* Entertainment Center

* Fair area

My Safety Buddy

There are also a number of professions in which a person can work independently. These include:

* Construction;

* Plant installation

* cleaning

* Repair of electrical equipment

* paint and decorate

* Agricultural and forestry works

* Service jobs such as postal personnel, drivers, engineers, district nurses and real estate agents.

Lone worker training and risk assessment

There are no special rules for a lone worker. However, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration Regulations 1999 and the Occupational Health and Safety Act 1974 apply. They state that any occupational hazards must be identified, the associated risks must be assessed and appropriate measures must be taken to control or eliminate the risks. Such measures include the provision of rain, protective equipment and surveillance.

A lone worker risk assessment in My Safety Buddy is an indicator of the required norms and supervision. For example, in certain situations, at least one more employee may be required. If so, it is imperative that some form of backup be available when needed. Evaluation is vital because you shouldn’t take more risks than anyone else. This may mean that additional controls and precautions are required in the event of an emergency.

Protective gear for lonely workers

In addition to keeping your backup always at hand, there are several ways to protect it. Lone employee tracking systems are available in the form of tags, walkie-talkies, ID cards and mobile phones. They are especially useful for people who need to visit at home, such as health care workers or government officials. Similarly, GPS tracking devices can be used in vehicles for drivers.