Lone Working Policy and Procedures

Toolbox Talk Record

Ref: TBT-LON-010  |  Issue: 1  |  Date: March 2026
PresenterProject
LocationDate

What?

Why?

Legal dutyEmployers are legally required to assess and control risks to lone workers under the MHSWR 1999.
Emergency responseWithout colleagues nearby, an injured lone worker may not be found in time to receive life-saving treatment.
AccountabilityA clear policy ensures everyone understands the rules and responsibilities for lone working on site.
Do Don't
  • Follow the site lone working policy and complete a risk assessment
  • Carry a charged mobile phone or lone worker device at all times
  • Check in at agreed intervals with your supervisor or control room
  • Inform someone of your location, planned tasks, and expected return time
  • Ensure you have access to first aid supplies while working alone
  • Know the emergency procedure for your specific lone working location
  • Stop work and seek support if conditions change or new hazards arise
  • Keep your vehicle or means of transport accessible for emergencies
  • Report any incidents or near misses as soon as it is safe to do so
  • Complete lone working training before undertaking any solo site tasks
  • DON'T carry out high-risk tasks alone such as confined space entry
  • DON'T work alone without informing someone of your whereabouts
  • DON'T skip scheduled check-ins — they are your lifeline in an emergency
  • DON'T ignore the lone working risk assessment for your task and location
  • DON'T enter unfamiliar or remote areas without planning your exit route
  • DON'T assume your mobile phone will have signal at all locations
  • DON'T work alone at night unless the risk assessment specifically permits it
  • DON'T take unnecessary risks because no one is watching or supervising
  • DON'T leave your lone worker device behind or allow the battery to go flat
  • DON'T continue working alone if you feel unwell, fatigued, or unsafe

See also: Lone Working Awareness | Communication and Check-In Procedures