Posted By Phil Roberts
I have recently started employment with a regional newspaper company and am in the process of risk assessments in all areas of the buisness and found one area where "IT" staff are working alone at night doing service and maintenance on computer systems.I assesssed this required a lone working policy and was duly asked to write a policy.My dilema now is who is classed as a lone worker. We have sales reps, reporters, photographers, couriers and maitenance staff who all travel about a large area of the country.Any ideas of what should be in a policy for these types of jobs. I have read the HSE guidance on lone working but it does not seem to cover travelling workers in any detail ,regards Phil Roberts

Posted By Jim Sweetman
Phil,

Your dilemma is very familiar to me. As with any definition, who is it intended to cover and who is to be left out?

I have found that a large number of people these days have an element of lone working in carrying out their role. An interesting one, for another discussion, is lone working and working from home.

A viewpoint that I have always taken is that anyone frequently working without direct supervision would need to be considered as a lone worker.

For those who come outside the category of 'frequently', suitable risk assessment would identify elements of lone working and allow the employer to decide on appropriate preventative and protective measures.

In summary, I would advise a two tier approach;
- identify those who are obviously a lone worker, and
- those who, as part of their duties, may face risks due to lone working.

I hope that this proves of use.

Regards

Jim Sweetman