The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) have issued advice and guidance on managing the risks associated with lone working. Lone workers can be at greater risk of harm as they may not have immediate help or support if something goes wrong. Employers must ensure that risks are properly assessed and controlled for anyone working alone, including contractors and self‑employed people under their control.

The HSE’s latest bulletin highlights three key areas:

Managing risks that particularly affect lone workers
Lone workers may be more vulnerable to slips, trips, falls, violence, medical emergencies or situations where assistance may be delayed. Employers should review their risk assessments to ensure these hazards are identified and suitable control measures are in place.
Training, supervision and monitoring
Workers operating alone must receive clear instructions, understand emergency procedures and have reliable ways to stay in contact. Monitoring can include scheduled check‑ins, lone‑worker devices, welfare apps or other systems that ensure workers remain connected.
Guidance for lone workers themselves

Lone workers should know what tasks are permitted, how to raise concerns, and when to stop work if conditions become unsafe. They must have a dependable method of calling for help.

Further HSE Resources

The HSE provides free materials to support employers:

Leaflet: Protecting lone workers: How to manage the risks of working alone
Video: HSE’s lone‑working guidance video

These resources offer practical advice on assessing risks and putting effective arrangements in place.

Support from EB Safety Group

If your organisation is reviewing its lone‑working procedures, updating risk assessments or considering new monitoring arrangements, we are here to help.

We provide practical guidance and support to ensure lone‑working arrangements remain compliant and effective.