What must the employer of a lone worker do? A quick guide
In the modern workplace, lone workers are becoming more common. Whether they’re working remotely, traveling, or
employees alone for short periods of time, their safety should be a top priority. At Pick Protection, we’re passionate about making sure lone workers are protected and that employers are fully equipped to meet their responsibilities. So, what should you do to keep your lone workers safe and sound? Let’s break it down into simple, actionable steps.
- Get to know the risks
Think of a risk assessment as your first line of defence. It’s like a safety checklist that helps you identify what could go wrong and where. Look at the nature of the work, the locations where it’s carried out, and any specific dangers involved. This insight allows you to put in place measures that really tackle the risks, rather than just scratching the surface. - Create a safety game plan
Once you’ve identified the risks, it’s time to develop a solid safety plan. This includes everything from emergency procedures to day-to-day safety protocols and policies. Make sure this plan is clear, accessible, and communicated effectively to your lone workers. It’s about giving them the tools and knowledge they need to stay safe. - Train and equip
Training isn’t a one-off event – it’s an ongoing process. Equip your lone workers with both the skills they need and the right tools for the job. This might include safety technology, such as lone worker solutions or other communication devices. At Pick Protection, we offer innovative lone worker protection solutions that keep workers connected and safe, no matter where they are. - Stay in touch
Regular check-ins are crucial. They help ensure lone workers are okay and provide a chance to address any issues they might be facing. Implement a system for consistent communication, whether through scheduled calls or a dedicated check-in app. This helps keep everyone in the loop and provides an extra layer of security. - Keep things up to date
A safety plan is only as good as its last update. Regularly review and refresh your procedures to keep up with changes in the work environment or new potential risks. This helps maintain a high level of safety and ensures that your lone workers are always well protected.
Size matters: tailoring safety to your business
Different businesses have different needs, and your approach to lone worker safety should reflect that.
- Small companies: If you’re a small business with a handful of employees, you might have
more flexibility but also fewer resources. Your safety measures should be straightforward but effective.
Personalised risk assessments and regular communication are key, and you can often use simple tools and procedures
to keep your lone workers safe. - Medium-sized businesses: For medium-sized businesses, you’ll need a more structured
approach. This will involve more formal risk assessments, comprehensive training programmes, and perhaps more
sophisticated safety technology. Regular audits and reviews will help ensure that your safety practices evolve with
your business. - Large organisations: In larger organisations, managing lone worker safety can be complex.
You’ll need detailed risk assessments, tailored safety procedures for various departments, and advanced safety
solutions dependent on risk profiles. Leveraging technology for proactive welfare management and communication is
often crucial. Large organisations should also have dedicated safety teams or personnel to oversee these efforts and
ensure compliance with all relevant regulations.
Top three tips for lone worker safety
- Invest in technology: Use modern lone worker protection solutions to keep your team connected and safe. Functionality like fall detection and proactive welfare checks can be lifesavers.
- Regular training: Keep safety skills and knowledge up to date with ongoing training and refresher courses.
- Frequent check-ins: Implement a reliable system for regular communication to ensure that lone workers are safe and supported at all times.
At Pick Protection, we understand the unique challenges of lone working and are here to help you every step of the way. By taking these steps, you’re not just meeting your responsibilities—you’re actively creating a safer, more supportive environment for your lone workers. For more information on how our solutions can enhance your safety measures, don’t hesitate to reach out. Together, we can make sure your lone workers stay safe, no matter where their work takes them.