Lone workers face unique risks as a result of working alone in isolated work environments, from construction workers operating heavy equipment to healthcare professionals dealing with volatile patients or emergency situations, all alone. fallen alarm Combine that with working under extreme weather conditions or remote locations and it becomes evident that developing an effective lone worker safety policy requires forethought, preparation, and a commitment to your employees’ wellbeing.

Step one in creating an effective lone worker safety policy is conducting a risk evaluation that details all potential threats that could negatively impact physical and emotional well-being for remote workers. For optimal results, include your remote employees in this collaborative process as they can often detect hazards others would overlook. Once you have an exhaustive list of threats identified, prioritize and implement policies, procedures, or trainings designed to mitigate them.

Your lone worker safety program must also address how lone workers can stay in communication with supervisors and designated contacts during emergencies, whether through regular phone calls or messaging apps; training must also take place on how best to use these systems and report issues promptly.

panic button police Make sure your lone workers have access to communication devices, emergency supplies such as first aid kits and food and water, and equipment required for their specific line of work. Furthermore, promote physical wellbeing by encouraging regular breaks as well as being proactive about any symptoms of fatigue or heat stress that arise in order to help ensure their wellbeing.

Last but not least, you must establish and communicate a policy for lone workers that clearly outlines their responsibilities, including checking in regularly with designated contacts and what steps to take should an emergency arise. Your company’s lone worker safety policy should outline expectations around reporting incidents or emergencies to designated contacts as well as steps they can take if help is required during an incident or emergency situation.

With our comprehensive approach to lone worker safety, your team can work confidently and you can rest easy knowing your lone workers are being properly cared for. Clarity is essential in creating successful policies, as every word must convey unmistakable meaning – both legally as well as to ensure your policies are understood by all teams involved.