The Lone Worker Checklist:
The topic of lone work increasingly shapes the everyday work of numerous employees in various industries. With the increased use of home office and structured shift systems, it is becoming more common for employees to operate out of the hearing and sight range of other colleagues during their shifts. This can particularly endanger the health of workers in hazardous workplaces. Employers are obligated under law to ensure the safety of affected locations within the company. This requires not only a thorough analysis but also the implementation of appropriate measures for personnel protection.
The following checklist provides some examples for the protection of lone workers and can be directly integrated into the daily operations of your company.
Using COREDINATE's flexible forms, you can create such a checklist for your use.
1. Use of COREDINATE® as a Personal Emergency Signal System
The Personal Emergency Signal System is controlled via the COREDINATE app and can be easily installed on any standard smartphone. This allows employees to call for help in an emergency, even if no one else is within earshot.
2. Use of Technical Work Equipment
Special machines and automated processes can reduce the strain on the human body during daily work. This includes mobile scaffolding, work platforms, elevating platforms, load vehicles, and much more.
3. Provision of Personal Protective Equipment for Employees
Proper protective equipment ensures that employees are optimally protected in hazardous workplaces. This is especially important when handling heavy machinery and hazardous materials. Examples of reliable protective equipment include helmets, welding goggles, sturdy footwear, and gloves. Additionally, many other solutions, such as dead man's switches, can be implemented.
4. Regular Review of Safety Precautions
It is important that safety precautions for lone workers are regularly reviewed and updated if necessary. New hazards may arise, or existing measures may lose their effectiveness. Regular reviews can help identify and address potential risks early.
5. Keeping Escape Routes Clear
Marked escape routes must be accessible at all times to ensure a safe exit in case of an emergency. These routes should be well lit and unobstructed.
6. Ensuring Adequate Lighting in Workplaces
Especially in hazardous workplaces, even small mistakes can lead to serious accidents. Adequate lighting in warehouses, workshops, and possibly outdoor areas is crucial to minimize the risk of injury, particularly during night shifts.
7. Emergency Protocols and Regular Drills
Establishing an emergency protocol and conducting regular emergency drills are crucial for the safety of lone workers. A detailed protocol outlines how to act in the event of an emergency, while regular drills ensure that employees are familiar with the procedures and can respond quickly and effectively. This helps minimize potential risks and enhances workplace safety.
8. Conducting Training and Providing Operating Instructions
Effective communication between employees and management contributes to a safe working environment. Employees should not only be equipped with protective gear but also possess the necessary know-how and have a responsible contact person.
9. Reducing Lone Work
Where possible, lone work should be avoided. If this is not possible or the task must be performed alone, solutions like COREDINATE's lone worker protection can enhance employee safety. For questions, we are happy to assist you.
10. Availability of Emergency Medical Supplies On-Site
Despite all precautions, accidents can happen. Therefore, it is important that affected employees have easy access to first aid kits, medications, and disinfectants in case of an emergency.