Lone working occurs when a person works by themselves without close or direct supervision. On construction sites, this may include security guards, surveyors, maintenance workers, and operatives carrying out tasks in isolated areas. The key risk is that if something goes wrong, there is nobody nearby to raise the alarm or provide assistance. A proper lone working risk assessment and communication system must be in place before anyone works alone.
Key Hazards
No immediate assistance available if an injury or medical emergency occurs
Increased vulnerability to violence or intimidation in remote locations
Inability to raise the alarm if trapped, incapacitated, or in danger
Higher risk tasks becoming more dangerous without a second person present
Control Measures
Complete a lone working risk assessment before any person is permitted to work alone.
Ensure lone workers carry a charged mobile phone or lone worker safety device at all times.
Establish regular check-in times and agree an escalation procedure if contact is not made.
Restrict high-risk activities such as work at height and confined space entry for lone workers.
Provide lone workers with adequate first aid training and a personal first aid kit.
Ensure lone workers know the site emergency plan and how to summon help from their location.
Brief lone workers on the specific risks of their location and the controls in place.
Monitor weather conditions and recall lone workers if conditions deteriorate significantly.
Review lone working arrangements regularly and after any incident or near miss.
Remember
Lone workers must always have a reliable means of communication and raising the alarm.
Certain high-risk activities must never be carried out by a person working alone.
Regular check-ins are essential — agree the frequency and stick to the agreed schedule.
If a lone worker fails to check in, the escalation procedure must be activated immediately.
A lone working risk assessment is a legal requirement under the Management Regulations.
Your employer has a duty to ensure your safety whether you work alone or as part of a team.
Applicable Legislation: Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 · Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 · CDM Regulations 2015