As cases of threats to lone workers become increasingly prevalent, business leaders have been offered expert advice to help them prioritise and increase protection for relevant staff.
As the UK grapples with alarming outbreaks of violence and rioting, this advice could not come at a more suitable time. The recent surge in public unrest has heightened the risks faced by lone workers, who are often on the front lines of vulnerable situations without immediate support.
Safepoint is urging decision-makers in relevant industries to review and increase safety protocols for its staff members who work by themselves.
Statistics show that incidents involving lone workers are common across all industries, with 68 per cent of companies having experienced an incident involving a lone worker in the past three years. Worryingly, a fifth of these incidents were described as severe or very severe.*
Anybody who works alone, including contractors, self-employed people and employees, is classed as a lone worker. This is defined by the Health & Safety Executive (HSE) as people who work by themselves without close or direct supervision.
It’s estimated that around 20 per cent of the working population are lone workers, with around 8 million of these estimated to be working alone in the UK.**
Safepoint‘s CEO Callum Coombes said:
Ensuring the safety of lone workers is not just a legal obligation but a moral one, so employers must take proactive steps to protect these vulnerable employees. That being said, failure to comply with the regulations could result in businesses facing fines of thousands – or even millions – of pounds.
Callum Coombes, CEO Safepoint
Ways business leaders can increase protection for their lone workers:
Conduct risk assessments:
Regularly evaluate the risks associated with lone working to identify potential hazards and implement appropriate safety measures. This involves assessing the work environment, tasks performed, and specific risks related to working in isolation. Involving lone workers in this process can provide valuable insights and ensure all potential hazards are identified and addressed.
Implement monitoring systems:
Use technology like GPS tracking, wearable devices, and remote monitoring to keep track of lone workers’ locations and conditions. These systems can provide real-time data and alerts, enabling quick response in case of an emergency. Advanced monitoring systems can also detect unusual patterns or movements, adding an extra layer of protection.
Establish communication protocols:
Set up regular check-in times and ensure lone workers have reliable means of communication, such as mobile phones, two-way radios, or specialised safety apps. Establish a protocol for missed check-ins and ensure that there are backup communication methods in place. Regular communication helps to ensure the safety and well-being of lone workers and provides a sense of connection and support.
Provide training and resources:
Equip lone workers with training on emergency procedures, self-defence, and first aid. Ensure they have access to necessary equipment and resources to stay safe, such as personal protective equipment (PPE), first aid kits, and emergency contact information. Ongoing training sessions help workers stay informed about the latest safety practices and how to respond to potential hazards.
Develop emergency response plans:
Create and regularly update emergency response plans tailored to situations that your lone workers might face, and conduct drills to ensure workers know what to do in an emergency. These plans should include clear instructions on how to get help quickly, contact emergency services, and evacuate if necessary.
Leverage technology:
Utilise modern safety apps and platforms that offer features like automatic check-ins, emergency alerts, and incident reporting. These tools can provide real-time data and analytics, helping to identify trends and areas for improvement. Integrating technology into safety protocols enhances the overall effectiveness of safety measures and ensures that lone workers are always connected and protected.
Joanne is the editor for Workplace Wellbeing Professional and has a keen interest in promoting the safety and wellbeing of the global workforce. After earning a bachelor's degree in English literature and media studies, she taught English in China and Vietnam for two years. Before joining Work Well Pro, Joanne worked as a marketing coordinator for luxury property, where her responsibilities included blog writing, photography, and video creation.
