Communication is key - set up check-ins throughout the day with workers
Create a communication system that doesn't revolve around phones
Tracking location systems aren't for tracking your productivity - they're for safety and locating you in an emergency
What's the problem with lone working?
Working long, unsociable hours places you at a multitude of risks. Examples of these are falls and working with machinery or livestock.
By being on your own and isolated there's no one around to respond if an emergency does happen.
Hannah shares an example she's come across with riding a motorbike. The rider was alone when the motorbike fell and trapped them. They were alone and couldn't call for help. The same occurrence can happen with ATVs and other machinery as well.
If you don't have a phone signal or a phone with you can't communicate to anyone who can assist. Especially when pinned under a vechicle.
Risk Assessment on Lone Working
Think about the particular individual you're asking to go do the lone work. Are they young? Any medical history that would limit them on their own? A Risk Assessment will help you run through these scenarios.
Your risk assessment will also have you consider your method of communication. Providing a method of communication like a mobile can be a solution. However, you can't always rely on mobile signal while working in rural areas. In this case, you need a backup like a two-way radio.
Another method would be to have a check-in and check-out system throughout the day. Others can have a time to expect you back; if you're not, they know something has happened.
Talk to your workers who work alone. They'll know the risks better than anyone. Ask them what makes them nervous and work backwards to create your procedure to Lone Working.
Also consider the tasks your Lone Workers are doing. Think hard about who you have working alone and what task they're doing.
First Aid on Farm
Most workplaces only have one first aider in the workplace. However, what happens if that first aider is off sick or on holiday?
Prepare your workers by having everyone first aid trained. If they are and can administer first aid to themselves, lone workers will be better equipped to help themselves.
Keep first aid kits in vehicles and where easily accessible as well.
