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Understanding Lone Working

Lone working presents unique risks that require careful management to ensure the safety and wellbeing of employees. While many lone workers perform their duties without incident, the absence of immediate supervision or assistance can significantly increase their vulnerability to hazards. This course is designed to raise awareness of the specific risks associated with lone working, highlight the importance of effective control measures, and address complacency that can lead to serious or fatal incidents.

Learners are reminded that this training should be used in conjunction with the Lone Worker Permit to Work, available on the Health and Safety Documents page of the Portal, to ensure a consistent and compliant approach to managing lone working activities.

By the end of this course, learners will be able to:

• Define lone working and explain the unique risks it presents.
• Identify common hazards associated with lone working across a range of environments and activities.
• Understand the legal duties of employers and employees in relation to lone working under UK health and safety legislation.
• Apply practical control measures and risk mitigation strategies to lone working situations.
• Understand the role and requirements of the Lone Worker Permit to Work and how it supports safe lone working practices.
• Develop communication plans, supervision strategies, and emergency procedures appropriate to lone working environments.
• Recognise the importance of personal responsibility and situational awareness when working alone.

Approximate Completion Time: 20 minutes