Lone Worker Safety: 3 Tips on What to Know

Lone Worker in comprehensive PPE on an empty site, symbolizing the need for robust lone worker protection and communication protocols.

Working alone is never ideal but can be unavoidable in some businesses and comes with unique risks. Whether employees are travelling, working in remote locations, or working after-hours, it is crucial that the proper procedures are undertaken and that you take responsibility for your safety. Here are three tips for lone workers on how to prioritize your safety.

Tip 1: Consistent Check Ins

Letting someone know what you are doing, where you will be, and when you will be returning is the ideal mindset to have when working on your own. You can use a digital lone worker system that checks in periodically. Carry a fully charged phone and if you are in an area of poor signal, consider devices that work with satellite networks. Have a check-in schedule in place and stick to it!

Tip 2: Carrying the Essentials

Have a checklist in place for what are non-negotiable items; ID, First aid kit, flashlight, water, weather-appropriate gear, safety gear, communication devices. It is important to prepare for contingencies when there isn’t the fallback of having other workers with you.

Tip 3: Familiarize yourself with the Environment

Be familiar with any procedures present on your site. Know where the exits, alarms, and emergency contact information are, and how to access them. Keep an eye out for signage that is in place regarding hazards and trust your gut if you sense that something is not right. If you notice something out of place or strange, stop, keep your distance, report it, and leave.

Have you Enquired about the FlexManager Lone Worker Module?

At FlexManager, our Lone Worker module assists personnel by having notified check-ins at specified intervals and having a GPS linked to an employee’s location. If a check in fails, then a voice call or SMS is sent to the employees’ supervisor to inform them, so that they can follow any procedural steps.

One of our clients had this to say about the FlexManager Lone Worker module:

“I sleep better at night knowing my staff have the right tools to ensure they are in full control of their safety.”

To summarize, if something feels unsafe – leave, report it, or call for help. Lone workers may be compelled to “push through,” but when at work, it is imperative to put your safety first, always.

To find out more about our Lone Worker, or any other modules at FlexManager, please get in touch with our team through our Contact section on FlexManager.com.