LONE WORKING ADVICE HANDOUT

Introduction

This handout is to provide staff advice when working alone, however, the best advice we can offer is, wherever possible, always avoid lone working if you can.

Staff working alone within the workplace inside office hours:

  • Ensure that there is a telephone to call for help, if needed.
  • Should you feel anxious call a colleague or the emergency services for help.
  • Ensure valuables are secure and that keys are not accessible to visitors.
  • Avoid meeting people, if you are alone in the workplace.
  • Report any incidents or concerns to your manager.

Staff working alone within the workplace outside office hours:

From time to time, you may need to work outside normal hours. The following precautions must be taken to ensure that your health and safety continues to be protected.

  • Do not tell anyone, other than family and colleagues, that you are alone in the workplace.
  • If you are driving, park as close to the building as you can in a well lit area.
  • Ensure you have access to a phone in case you need to call the emergency services.
  • Check your fire escape routes are not locked (may happen outside normal working hours).
  • Always let colleagues know, if you are staying behind in the office at the end of the normal working day, so they will know to check on you before they leave.
  • If you are working at weekends or very late at night/early in the morning, let a colleague/friend or relative know your whereabouts and the time that you are expected back.
  • If you change your plans, let your contact know immediately.
  • Ensure that all windows and doors are secured to prevent unauthorised access.
  • Do not open the doors to any strangers.
  • Before leaving a department, ensure that all windows are closed and doors locked.

Staff working alone outside the workplace:

When working away from the workplace on your own it is important to communicate with others about your intentions.

You must provide the following to inform your colleague:

  • The location and estimated length of the meeting/visit.
  • The time when you are expected to return to or contact the workplace.
  • A contact telephone number, (check your mobile phone is charged).
  • The time of the appointment.

IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS, ASK YOUR MANAGER OR THE HEALTH & SAFETY OFFICER FOR ADVICE.

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