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Got lone workers on your team? Here’s what you need to know

If someone on your team is working by themselves without other people around and without direct supervision, they’re likely considered a lone worker. Whether it’s a regular thing or just every now and then, it’s your job to make sure they’re safe and supported.

Who counts as a lone worker?

It’s not just remote bush jobs. Lone workers might be team members who:

• Travel solo for work
• Cover big distances
• Work in a remote or isolated spot
• Work by themselves in a separate area on a larger site
• Do night shifts or work odd hours

If this sounds like anyone on your team, there are a few key things you need to think about:

Lone Working Laws in the UK

While employing lone workers is permitted under UK legislation, employers retain a legal duty of care towards these individuals. Current regulations require that you take all steps that are ‘reasonably practicable’ to guarantee workplace safety for your staff. As an employer, you must consider:

• Determine which employees work alone.
• Evaluate the risks and dangers they encounter (perform a risk assessment).
• Implement protective measures for these workers to minimize or eliminate the risks they face.
• Regularly monitor and update your protective measures.

Keep security front of mind

Lone workers may face more risks, both to their own safety and the equipment or materials they’re using. You need to make sure they’re prepared and protected.Vulnerable workers like apprentices and inexperienced workers shouldn’t be working alone.

Don’t let them feel isolated

Working solo can be lonely. No banter. No team catch-ups. It takes a toll.
Stay connected with regular check-ins like phone calls, group chats, or video calls. It doesn’t need to be fancy,  just make it consistent. A quick “How’s your day going?” can go a long way.

Don’t leave them out of the loop

Just because someone’s working away from the team doesn’t mean they should miss out on training, updates, or important info. Keep the comms flowing so everyone’s in the know – no matter where they are.

Set them up with the right equipment 

Make sure lone workers have the tools and tech to get the job done safely and stay connected. That includes:

• A phone or two-way radio
• GPS or location tracking if they’re in an isolated area
• The HazardCo App – for easy hazard reporting and support
• PPE that suits the job
• A fully stocked first aid kit (and training to use it!)
• A fire extinguisher that’s been checked in the last 12 months

Try a buddy system

Simple, but it works. Pair your lone workers with a buddy – someone they can check in with daily. Share location, talk through the day’s work, and have a bit of a yarn. It keeps morale up and helps you respond faster if something’s not right.

Have a plan for emergencies

Create straightforward emergency plans that outline actions to take during incidents such as accidents, health issues, or other urgent situations. These plans must be easily available to lone working staff and updated on a regular basis..
Make sure your team knows what the plan is and how it works. Test it out, and keep emergency contact info up to date.

At the end of the day, look out for your lone workers the same way you would if they were right there beside you. A bit of planning and a good dose of communication make a big difference.

Need help?
If you’re a HazardCo member, the Advisory Team is just a tap away in the app. We’re here to keep things simple and help you keep your team safe, wherever they’re working.