The United Kingdom is home to a considerable number of lone workers ranging from social care professionals, community nurses, estate agents, to postal staff, and more. These individuals often carry out their roles without the direct supervision of colleagues or the security that a standard office environment might offer.
As such, safety can be a prominent concern that directly affects their wellbeing and productivity. Today, we’re delving into some effective strategies that can make a world of difference in ensuring lone worker safety. Join us.
Leveraging Technology: The Power Of Lone Worker Apps
One of the most effective and innovative solutions for solo worker safety in this digital age is the use of the lone worker app. These apps are designed to offer fast and effective help in case of emergencies. For instance, StaySafe is a widely-used app in the UK that offers GPS tracking, missed check-in alerts, and even a ‘man-down’ feature that signals when a worker hasn’t moved for a certain period of time.
Another potent tool is SoloProtect, an app that offers both reactive and proactive safety measures. It includes a ‘Red Alert’ feature which immediately connects workers to a response team in case of an emergency, as well as a ‘Yellow Alert’ function for recording potentially hazardous situations.
The Importance Of Self-Defence Training
While technology like apps can be lifesaving, it’s essential to provide physical strategies as well. Offering lone workers self-defence training can be pivotal in building their confidence, and equipping them with practical skills that can be used if ever they find themselves in dangerous situations.
Courses like those offered by the British Self Defence Governing Body (BSDGB) not only teach physical techniques but also cover laws surrounding self-defence, de-escalation tactics, and risk assessment. Encouraging lone workers to enrol in these types of courses could significantly enhance their personal safety.
Read: 7 self defence tips everyone should know
Creating Comprehensive Lone Worker Policies
While apps and self-defence training are incredibly beneficial, organisations must also foster a culture of safety through a comprehensive lone worker policy. This policy should cover risk assessments, procedures for reporting incidents, and should be regularly reviewed and updated to ensure it meets the evolving needs of workers.
The UK’s Health and Safety Executive (HSE) provides in-depth guidelines on creating an effective lone worker policy. It’s a crucial resource for businesses seeking to enhance the safety of their lone workers.
Effective Communication & Regular Check-Ins
Regular check-ins can be as simple as a phone call or a text message, but they play a crucial role in ensuring safety. They help monitor the wellbeing of workers in real-time and provide a platform for workers to report any immediate concerns or threats to their safety.
The Power Of Education & Awareness
Last but not least, raising awareness about potential risks associated with lone working and educating workers about best safety practices is vital. Organisations can host workshops or training sessions that cover topics like situational awareness, safe travel practices, and mental health support.
Some of the best UK organisations who can provide training on lone worker safety include:
- BSIF (British Safety Industry Federation): This federation offers a wide range of training programmes specifically designed for the safety industry, including Lone Worker Safety.
- StaySafe: StaySafe offers a comprehensive lone worker safety solution, including an app and a hub where employers can monitor the safety of their lone workers. They also offer training and education about lone worker safety.
- IOSH (Institution of Occupational Safety and Health): IOSH, based in the UK, offers a variety of courses and resources focused on lone worker safety.
- The Lone Working Group: This group is an offshoot of The Health and Safety Matters (HSM) organization and offers not just training but also best practice advice on Lone Working.
- Worthwhile Training: This organisation provides bespoke training on a variety of subjects, including safety for lone workers.
- The Health and Safety Group: This group provides a wide range of safety training courses, including those specific to lone workers.
- SoloProtect: SoloProtect delivers a comprehensive range of solutions for employers wishing to protect their staff, the majority of which are operating alone. This includes training on best practices.
- Reliance Protect: They offer a suite of lone worker safety services, including device-based solutions, apps and training support.
- Lone Worker Solutions: They offer a wide range of protective services, including Safe Hub, a multi-device application that offers a comprehensive range of lone worker protection features.
The Bottom Line
Workplace safety is a right, not a privilege, and for those in the lone workforce in the UK, it’s a topic that needs constant attention. By adopting strategies such as levering lone worker apps, initiating self-defence training, creating comprehensive policies, maintaining frequent communication, and educational initiatives, lone workers can feel more secure, healthier, and more productive in their roles.
Remember, a safe worker is a happy worker!