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Today’s technological advancement has increased the number of people who work alone, outdoors, or indoors. Therefore, it is essential to establish a solid framework to provide maximum protection to all employees, especially lone workers who work in challenging conditions and, in most cases, in remote locations.
If you’ve ever worked in dangerous situations or away from others, you’re probably familiar with the term “lone worker.” If you own a business that requires lone workers, you should pay special attention to the Lone Worker Protection Policy.
In this article, you will learn about bolstering lone worker safety and what proactive measures should be taken for a safe and healthy environment.
Identify Possible Hazards and Problems
The first step in ensuring the lone worker’s safety is identifying all possible hazards and problems.
Environmental Risks – Examples of environmental hazards are slippery and stumbling surfaces, falling, blunt force injuries, and other hazards that can cause a person harm. All health ailments, such as strokes, heart attacks, or any other illness that requires emergency medical attention may also fall into this category.
Social Risks – Social hazards are the most common threat employees face when working alone. Robbery, physical assault, sexual assault, and mental assault are common examples of this category.
Conduct Risk Assessment
To effectively deal with the risks of a lone worker, companies first need to compile a list of all the potential hazards that a lone worker may face. For example, manual handling operations, contact with animals, use of lasers, involvement of any gas or electricity, and other such scenarios. In any case, review all risks for your lone workers to avoid emergencies.
Invest in Training
Any company or organization must invest in training to thrive and grow. As a result, workers gain confidence and are more prepared to face unpredictable challenges. Furthermore, training is a collaborative effort between businesses and employees which can increase productivity and efficiency in business operations.
Use Robust Monitoring System
Companies need to work with more efficient and advanced technology like the Lone Worker Monitoring System to speed up procedures and achieve fully automated solutions. In the event of an SOS, the program automatically sends alerts to the administration and notifies them of an emergency.
Use Proper Equipment
Companies are responsible for ensuring workers have the necessary equipment to carry out their day-to-day work properly. Being well-equipped means that the lone worker will not only do their job but also feel more secure and safe from external hazards.
It is your moral and ethical responsibility to protect your lone workers. Proper planning will enable you to identify and mitigate the essential risks for your lone employees. Providing them with the necessary information and tools will ensure that they carry out their tasks efficiently and safely. Ask them about the obstacles and challenges they face. Companies are solely responsible for making every effort to protect workers. Employees, however, must protect their interests and speak up if they do not feel supported.
