The Law on Lone Working

Lone working is common across many industries, from retail and healthcare to construction and security. But what does the law say about it? Is it legal to work alone, and what responsibilities do employers have?

Understanding the legal requirements and safety measures surrounding lone working is essential for both employers and employees. In this guide, we’ll explain what lone working is, outline relevant UK laws and work regulations, and provide practical advice on how to stay safe while working alone.

What Is Lone Working?

Lone Working Myths

One common misconception is that an employer’s responsibility for an employee’s safety ends at the office door. In reality, employers are legally required to provide a safe working environment, even if an employee works remotely or away from the company premises. This includes providing appropriate training, supervision, and support.

Examples of Lone Workers

Lone workers could be based in premises or establishments, for example:

1. A person working alone in a small workshop, petrol station, kiosk or shop

2. People working alone for long periods, e.g in factories, warehouses, leisure centres or fairgrounds.

3. People working alone outside normal hours, like cleaners and security guards, maintenance or repair staff.

Whereas lone mobile workers work away from a fixed base, such as:

1. Workers involved in construction, maintenance and repair, plant installation and cleaning work.

2. Agricultural and forestry workers.

3. Service workers, including postal staff, social and medical workers, engineers, estate agents, and sales or service representatives visiting domestic and commercial premises.

What are the UK laws on lone working?

What is a lone working risk assessment?

The employer must carry out a risk assessment of solo work tasks. If a company has five or more employees, the findings must be recorded.

For more information, about risk assessments and control measures read our Risk Assessment Checklist for Lone Workers article on the Commodious Knowledge Bank.

HSE Employer Responsibilities Under a Lone Working Policy

A lone working policy is a formal document outlining how an organisation will protect employees who work alone. A good lone worker policy includes:

• Clear procedures for maintaining regular contact with lone workers.

• Risk assessment findings and safety measures.

• Emergency procedures and support systems.

• Training and supervision requirements.

• Consideration of existing medical conditions that could affect an employee’s ability to work alone.

Planning Safe Working Arrangements

Employers should consider the following when creating a lone working policy:

• Legal Restrictions – Certain jobs, such as diving operations and transporting explosives, prohibit working alone.

• Risk Management – Can the identified safety risks be controlled by one person?

• Supervision & Monitoring – Employers should implement procedures to monitor lone working staff effectively.

• Emergency Response – Clear guidelines should be in place for dealing with accidents, illnesses, or an emergency situation.

Digital Safety Solutions

Employers can improve lone worker safety by using digital tools such as mobile phones and lone worker safety apps like StaySafeApp. These tools provide real-time tracking and emergency alerts, enhancing security for lone workers in high-risk situations.

Additional Resources and Training

For more guidance, employers and employees can seek advice from trade associations, unions, and charities like the Suzy Lamplugh Trust, which promotes personal safety for lone workers. Employers can also benefit from specialised training courses, which provide valuable knowledge and certification.

Final Thoughts

Lone working is legal but requires careful planning and risk management. Employers must take responsibility for ensuring the safety of lone workers by considering the additional risks they face due to their job role, conducting risk assessments, implementing safety policies, and addressing any health and safety issues that arise while providing necessary support. By following legal requirements and best practices, businesses can create a safer working environment for employees who work alone.

To learn more about legal requirements and best practices for workforce lone working, enroll in our Lone Working and Violence at Work online course. Gain essential safety knowledge, earn a RoSPA certificate, and 0.5 CPD points to enhance your professional development.