LONE WORKING

There is no clear definition, which could be used to cover lone working: what is needed is an analysis of how any risk is perceived and classified.

In assessing the risk the employee should look at:

• The activity itself;
  
• The environment it takes place in; and
  
• The risks that arise from Working Alone

There is no legal requirement in most circumstances for working alone. Under the Health and Safety at work Act 1974, (section 2), employers have a duty to ensure the health, safety and welfare at work of their employees. Regulation 3, Risk Assessments, of the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999, requires an assessment of the risks involved in all the activities undertaken and then ensure proper control measures are put in place.

General guidance for assessing the risk could include:

• Can an unaccompanied person do the work safely?
  
• What arrangements will ensure that an individual is not exposed to greater risks than employees who work together?
  
• The remoteness and location of the workplace;
  
• The conditions of the workplace;
  
• Is communications adequate;
  
• What level of supervision is needed;
  
• What is the likelihood of personal assault?
  
• Are they medically fit?
  
• Are tools and equipment adequately maintained?
  
• Have they had adequate training and information?
  
• Have the worst-case scenarios be considered?

Effectively, an assessment into Lone Working will provide a suitable backup system: the Lone Worker should have the authority to suspend work when they consider it necessary and have the confidence in a full and effective support system, particularly in emergencies.

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