Lone working
Work carried out by a person who works alone, without close or direct supervision, and who may be at particular risk due to isolation. Employers must assess and control risks to lone workers.
Also known as
By jurisdiction
UK HSE
“lone working”SharedMHSWR 1999 regulation 3 requires employers to assess all risks including those to lone workers. HSE defines lone workers as people who work by themselves without close supervision, such as home workers, mobile workers and workers who work alone at a site. HSWA 1974 section 2 requires employers to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, the health, safety and welfare of lone workers.
Irish HSA
“lone working”SharedThe Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005, section 8, requires employers to manage risks to all employees including those who work alone. HSA guidance identifies lone working as a risk factor requiring specific assessment and control measures.
US OSHA
“lone working”SharedOSHA has no specific standard for lone workers. Lone working risks are addressed through general hazard assessment under applicable standards and the General Duty Clause. OSHA guidance recommends check-in systems, communication protocols and emergency procedures for workers who are isolated.
Practitioner note: Lone working is not prohibited; unassessed lone working is the problem. Check-in arrangements need an escalation step that somebody actually acts on.