Who is a Lone Worker?

A lone worker is an employee who undertakes a part of their role without close supervision and in isolation from other workers. Lone workers are particularly vulnerable and at-risk employees due to the additional exposure faced by having noone to assist them should they face any issues.

Challenges faced by lone workers

Lone workers are exposed to a higher level of risk, as they lack immediate support and oversight. Although pairing employees together can sometimes enhance safety, it’s not always practical or efficient. In these cases, Lone Worker safety devices provide a solution by enabling lone employees to alert others in emergencies. As is the case with many roles, it isn't always efficient or an ideal safety solution to pair up staff members, and this is where Lone Worker safety devices come into play.

Definitions of lone workers in different countries

Depending on where you're located the definition of a Lone Worker will also vary:

  • New Zealand: The Ministry of Business, Innovation, and Employment defines lone work as "work carried out in an area where normal means of contact (e.g., verbal or sight) with other staff is not available, increasing potential hazard risks and necessitating extra precautions." This may include working in isolated areas, onsite or offsite, either during or outside normal working hours.
  • Australia: "Lone workers are considered those who work by themselves and/or work in the community with only limited support arrangements, which therefore expose them to risk by being isolated from the usual backup support. This is the case whether they regularly work alone or are only occasionally alone and do not have access to immediate support from managers or other colleagues."

Broadening the definition of lone workers

The term "Lone Worker" in common usage does extend beyond isolated and solitary workers though. Employees working in situations that are isolated from the office in teams are often considered Lone Workers as they are often working in remote or isolated locations without immediately available backup support.

How to Protect Your Lone Workers

Providing reliable safety solutions for lone workers is crucial. For more information on safeguarding your high-risk lone employees, explore Smartrak’s lone worker safety solutions. Contact us to learn how we can support your organisation in ensuring a safer work environment for your workforce.

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