Have you looked at the rota and noticed that your colleagues have booked their holiday, leaving you manning the office; shop; or out making visits alone during their absence? Maybe you are a seasonal worker in tourism, agriculture, or retail and have experienced fluctuating staffing levels, despite certain tasks or operations needing to be performed. Did those periods make you feel vulnerable?
As an employee, finding yourself working alone can be both challenging and daunting. Suddenly being in a vulnerable position, where you’re not used to working independently, requires adaptability and proactive measures to ensure personal safety and maintain productivity. We cover here the unique experiences faced by employees in such situations and provide practical strategies to navigate the occasional lone working scenario.
As an employer, managing seasonal shift patterns, holidays, or even sudden sickness typically leads to employees working alone unexpectedly. These scenarios can present unique challenges for your workforce, as they navigate occasional periods of risk, vulnerability, and isolation. We will touch on the employer’s perspective too and provide valuable insights on how to support and empower your employees during these circumstances, ensuring their safety, productivity, and overall well-being.
Recognise the Challenges:
Working alone can create a set of distinctive challenges for employees who are accustomed to collaborating with colleagues. They may find being put in the unusual situation of working alone tricky and left feeling vulnerable. It’s crucial to acknowledge these difficulties, including feelings of isolation, limited support, potential security risks, and the need for self-motivation.
Simply by taking the initiative to acknowledge and understand these challenges, lone workers can better prepare themselves to overcome any concerns. And employers can better tailor their support and implement strategies to address their concerns effectively.
Assesses and Manage Risks:
When faced with working alone, it is essential to identify potential hazards and vulnerabilities, or security concerns. Take proactive steps to mitigate these risks and familiarise yourself with emergency protocols. Report any concerns to your employer.
Employers must prioritise the safety of their employees by conducting comprehensive risk assessments of work environments. Identifying potential hazards and vulnerabilities specific to solo work. Mitigate these risks by implementing appropriate safety measures, providing necessary equipment, and establishing clear protocols for emergency situations.
Clearly identify which risks you are in control of and those that you’re not. Accept, minimise, and have clear protocols in place if action is needed.
Establish Effective Communication:
Effective communication becomes even more critical when working alone. Ensure you have reliable means of communication to stay connected with colleagues, supervisors, or emergency services. This not only enhances safety but also helps overcome feelings of isolation by fostering a sense of connection and support.
Employers must ensure that their lone working employees have access to means of communication, such as mobile phones or two-way radios, to stay connected with a regular check-in system that employees can use to confirm their well-being and location, and where they can seek support, and address any concerns. Fostering a culture of regular communication will enhance their safety and well-being
Prioritise Personal Safety:
Taking responsibility for your personal safety is crucial when working alone. Equipping yourself with knowledge and necessary safety equipment, access to mobile/telephone/two-way radio even personal alarms can provide an additional layer of security and peace of mind.
Employers have a duty of care to ensure that their lone working staff have the necessary knowledge and skills to navigate solo work effectively. They should define a clear policy and then provide training to minimise risks and cover personal safety and emergency procedures. They should also be providing guidance on how to handle challenging situations. By offering comprehensive support, employers will empower their employees to handle tasks confidently. This confidence will help productivity at all times, not just during difficult situations. Consider an alert system to provide an additional layer of protection. Regularly review and update Risk Assessments to address evolving needs and ensure a secure working environment.
Maintain Motivation and Productivity:
Working alone can sometimes lead to a decline in motivation and productivity. To combat this, establish a routine, and if you’re working from home, create a dedicated workspace that fosters focus and concentration. Set clear goals and prioritise tasks to stay organised and maintain momentum. Take regular breaks to prevent burnout, and research productivity techniques that resonate with you to enhance and sustain efficiency and engagement.
Seek Support and Collaboration Opportunities:
Although you may be physically working alone, remember that you are still part of a team. Reach out to colleagues, supervisors, or mentors for guidance, support, and collaboration when needed. Utilise virtual platforms, like video conferences or chat applications, to facilitate communication and maintain a sense of connection with your peers. Embrace opportunities for professional interactions, even during solo work shifts, to keep connected and support each other. Remember that you are an important part of a team, and with the right strategies and mindset, you can thrive while working alone, ensuring your safety and well-being while achieving your goals.
An employer who shows clear and consistent support and implements proactive measures plays a vital role in creating and evidencing a real duty of care covering the well-being and safety of a lone working employee. Prioritising their welfare not only promotes a positive working relationship, but also fosters loyalty, commitment, and overall organisational success.
SIMPLY REMEMBER: You are always responsible for your own personal safety BUT if you are a lone working employee your organisation has a legal duty of care to carry out a risk assessment and implement a plan. Then regularly review it to ensure that it is still valid.
MyTeamSafe®, award-winning lone-working App
Proud supporters of the Suzy Lamplugh Trust