Lone Worker - Tool box talk

Introduction

What is lone worker?

Working alone (being a lone worker) means working by yourself without close or direct supervision and where there are no other workers present. There is no set duration that establishes someone as a lone worker; a person can be a lone worker for any period of time

Who are the lone workers at working site?

• Working alone on site - for all or just some of the time, both regularly and/or permanently.

• Working away from their normal workplace – (e.g. contractors from home for an employer).

Some tasks are too difficult or dangerous to be carried out by an unaccompanied worker and the law prevents this (e.g. diving and working in confined spaces).

Common hazards for lone workers

These hazards are not unique to lone workers, but their potential seriousness is increased by the absence of co-workers or supervisors to help in an emergency.

Potential hazard and Control Measure(s)

Manual handling

• Lone workers must be able to seek assistance from others, as required.

• Provision of lifting and handling aids.

Violence against the person

• Training in diffusing confrontation, negotiation etc.

• Provision of personal alarms and effective means of two-way communication.

Breaking down in a vehicle

• Provision of reliable and well maintained vehicles.

• Membership of a road-side rescue organization.

Fire

• Fire precautions must be sufficient for the jobs.

• Welfare facilities should be sufficiently provided to the lone worker .

• The lone worker must always have an effective communication system to help him establish communication with others in case of an emergency

Working Alone? Working safely

• Consider working in pairs (buddy system).

• Ensure you carry appropriate means of contact e.g. a mobile phone or walkie-talkie.

• Carry an alarm.

• Ensure someone knows where you are.

• Park in a well-lit place.

• Tell someone if you alter your plans.

• Meet people you don't know in a public place.

• Be familiar with health and safety procedures.

• Tell your employer if your medical history and/or level of fitness make it inappropriate for you to work alone.

• Know what to do in an emergency.

• Report problems/incidents that occur while you're working alone.

• Stop the practice of working alone if the risks become too great.

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