Everyone deserves a safe work environment, where possible lone working should be avoided. Never put yourselves or others at risk.
Legislation
Lone working is covered by section 2 of the Health and Safety at Work Act and Regulation 3 of the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999. Employers have legal duties to conduct a risk assessment.
Risk Assessments
Need to be carried out to confirm whether a person on their own can do the work safely. Lone workers should be no more at risk than employees who work together.
Training
Most organisations carry out personal safety or violence prevention training. Do not go into a situation if you feel at risk; make your excuses and leave.
Communication
Let staff know where you are. Have a signing in procedure with reception. Many organisations have members of security who patrol the building.
Equipment
Both static and personal alarms are useful. Panic alarms alert other colleagues who work nearby. Personal alarms also make staff feel more confident. Some organisations have also installed CCTV in areas where employees work on their own.
Telephones
Mobile phones can also be used to call for help and to let others know where you are. Some organisations have a call in procedure at set times or at the end of a shift. Two way radios linked to security, may also be used.
Homeworking
Some staff now have the option to work from home. Employers need to carry out a risk assessment, particularly in regards to Display Screen Equipment Regulations. Homeworkers should be encouraged to take regular breaks. If staff work at home all the time, arrangements should be made to keep in touch and to keep up to date. This may include regular newsletters, training sessions and attendance at staff meetings.
Further Reading
Updated: 28 November 2007