Protecting Lone Workers: Have a Plan

 

Even when following the best of plans, there are times when an employee or co-worker ends up on a job site alone. Suddenly these lone workers realize that they are in a position where they can’t be heard or seen by another individual for a period of time.

 

This can put them in a potentially dangerous situation.

 

A remote drilling location with limited cell reception would be a typical example of a lone workers’ environment. But they can also simply be working during nonstandard work hours, putting them out sight and out of mind, and at risk.

 

Remote areas are not the only places lone workers can be found. They can become targets of crime or violence in rural, urban, or metropolitan areas. Workers can even find themselves alone in your shop or office for extended periods of time, or after working hours.

 

Then there are unforeseen circumstances that arise, such as an unexpected illness or injury, severe weather, unstable terrain, hazardous equipment, or threatening wildlife that can suddenly put them at risk. All of these are situations where a lone worker may potentially need emergency assistance.

 

How can you protect these lone workers? You can create a lone worker safety plan.

 

For a safety plan to work, everyone needs to have a fully charged, working cell phone. The plan should include communication through periodic cell phone calls or pre-determined check-in times. Any missed check-ins should raise a red flag and prompt a call to confirm their safety.

 

Develop your worker safety plan considering the possible scenarios above to protect your workers and your business.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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The material on this page is presented by Webtrol, Weber Industries, Inc., for general information purposes only and not intended as a basis for making any business, legal, or other decisions. Any reliance you place on such material is therefore strictly at your own risk.