Posted By Paul Allport Hi everyone, does anyone have a generic risk assessment for for lone working?

Posted By Alison Melrose Paul, There are a few issues that you should consider; 1) Driving Is the lone worker going to be doing any driving? If so, will they be using their own car or a company vehicle? Is the vehicle mechanically sound? Does it contain any "emergency items" such as blanket / spade etc if the person is required to drive to remote areas in harsh conditions? 2) Personal Safety Will the person encounter aggressive or antisocial individuals? The Suzy Lamplugh Trust provides training and advice on this so may be worth contacting. At the very least, providing the person with a mobile (not to be used when driving of course!) and asking them to "check-in" and out while visiting a client's site might be useful. 3) DSE Does the lone worker use a computer or laptop for most of the working day? If so, they will require a DSE risk assessment. Laptops especially can create additional problems in that the screen being attached to the keyboard means the user looks down all the time which can lead to neck and shoulder discomfort. A docking station (with screen) or at the very least, keyboard and mouse with the laptop placed on a box / some books can help. 4) Manual Handling Is the lone worker delivering items or lifting things? If so, manual handling training should be provided and a risk assessment performed. Probably one of the most common MH injuries is lifting an item out of the back of a car (whether it be samples, shopping or a small child!). This could impact on the type of vehicle the person is given (high tailgates can pose a problem for munchkins like myself!). 5) Social Isolation Some people love working on their own - no distractions from others, peace and quiet...others hate it and miss "the banter". Can the lone worker access others in the workplace (for brainstorming sessions etc). 6) Visiting the HQ If the lone worker is required to come into the office, is there provision for them to work (e.g. hot desk?) or are they expected to use the canteen / cupboard / car park instead? 7) Other premises Will the lone worker be visiting "dangerous" sites where chemicals etc may be present? Are they aware of the risks and will they receive training (either internally or from the client?) I'm sure there are other things I have't thought of (such as insurance etc) but hope these give you some ideas...