LON/General/TBT-LON-017
Check-In Communication Procedures
Lone Working › General › Check-In Communication Procedures
Toolbox Talk
Check-In Communication Procedures
Regular check-in communication is the primary safeguard for lone workers on construction sites. If a lone worker is injured or incapacitated, the check-in system ensures their absence is detected quickly and help is dispatched. A missed check-in triggers an escalation process that could save a life. This talk covers how check-in procedures work and why every lone worker must follow them without fail.
Key Hazards
Lone worker incapacitated with no one aware of their situation
Delayed rescue from missed check-ins not triggering the escalation procedure
Communication failure in areas with poor mobile or radio signal coverage
Complacency leading to check-ins being skipped or ignored over time
Control Measures
- Agree the check-in interval and method with the nominated contact before lone working begins.
- Set check-in intervals appropriate to the risk level, typically every 30 to 60 minutes.
- Use a reliable communication method: mobile phone, two-way radio, or lone worker device with GPS.
- Confirm the escalation procedure if a check-in is missed, including who is contacted and when.
- Test the communication equipment before starting the lone working task to confirm signal strength.
- Set reminders or alarms to ensure check-ins are made on time and not forgotten.
- Never skip or delay a check-in even if the task is going well and you feel safe.
- Report any communication dead spots to the supervisor so alternative arrangements can be made.
- Brief the nominated contact on the lone worker's location, task, and expected duration.
Remember
- Check in with your nominated contact at every agreed interval without fail
- Test your communication equipment before starting any lone working task
- A missed check-in triggers the escalation procedure so never skip one even if you feel safe
- Report any communication dead spots so alternative arrangements can be put in place
- The nominated contact must know your location, task, and expected finish time
Applicable Legislation: Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 · MHSWR 1999 · CDM 2015 · BS 8484:2016 Lone Worker Device Services
Delivered By
RAMS Builder
Generate professional Risk Assessment and Method Statements in minutes. 10 document formats, site-specific content, instant Word download.