Lone Worker Safety and Security Tips

Although accidents and incidents can never be completely prevented, there are certain measures and precautions that can be taken by employers and lone workers to help prevent the risk of incidents and to help minimise any damage caused to your premises and personnel. A good human resources department at your workplace should ensure they make you aware of these precautions during an employee induction process.

These are a few tips to help lone workers stay safe whilst working-

• If in doubt, ask.

No matter how long you've been at your job or how experienced you are, if you are uncertain about anything in your workplace or any form of equipment that you work with, consult your employer.

• Don't take risks.

If you are in a situation that is quickly becoming dangerous, such as a break in or a fire, don't try to be a hero and know your limits. Research by Orange and the Suzy Lamplugh Trust have found that 49% of lone workers in the UK have felt uncomfortable in their workplace at one time or another and 37% have found threatened by a third party whilst at work. By all means, if you are in a corner and know some basic self-defence moves or have instant access to a fire extinguisher, utilise that, but your main priority should be to make a safe exit.

• Take advantage of your smart phone.

Smart phones can be a real asset to help keep you safe and raise an early alarm. There are a variety of applications that can be downloaded on to your phone, such as Look Out Call's safety system which has various different features designed to keep lone workers safe. You want to look out for features like GPS tracking and auto-dialling in your safety application.

• Take responsibility for yourself.

Although employers need to carry out risk assessment, you need to ensure that you have knowledge of health and safety and fire protocols. Keep spare change and any medication you may need handy and make sure that your phone is fully charged before every shift. Try not to keep too many valuables on your person so that you do not make yourself a potential target, especially when you are working at night or directly with the public, for example petrol station workers and field sales staff.

• Your safety comes first.

If you do need to make an emergency exit, remember that your life is more valuable than anything that you are working with. Leave any computers or equipment, no matter how expensive as carrying heavy or awkward objects can hinder you escaping safely. Health and safety procedures are in place for a reason, so try to always comply with them.

Being a lone worker can sometimes put you in a vulnerable position, but with common sense and the right technology, emergency situations can be quickly resolved.