In today’s diverse working environment, the concept of a ‘shared workplace’ has gained substantial traction. Shared workplaces are co-working spaces where freelancers, small businesses, and now even larger organisation’s satellite hubs operate side-by-side simultaneously. While these environments foster a typical work environment and even collaboration and resource sharing, they also present unique safety challenges, particularly for individual workers. In this blog post, we will explore the specific risks “lone” workers face in shared workplaces and discuss effective strategies to mitigate these risks.
What Are the Risks for Lone Workers in shared Workplaces?
- Lack of Supervision and Support: Different organisations have varying safety protocols and cultures, or more worryingly none at all! A lone worker might be accustomed to one set of procedures via their employer, while others in the shared space might follow entirely different practices. This disparity can lead to confusion and potential safety lapses.
- Emergency Response Delays: In an emergency, your lone worker might not have immediate access to help. In shared workplaces, where multiple activities occur simultaneously, the lone worker’s distress signals could be overlooked or misinterpreted by the other unfamiliar personnel.
- Equipment and Machinery Hazards: Shared workplaces may not just be the typical office environment and equipment but can contain a variety of equipment and machinery at your lone worker’s disposal. They might not be familiar with the safe operation of a variety of equipment, machinery or tools, increasing the risk of accidents.
How Can You Mitigate the Risks?
- Comprehensive Risk Assessments: Conduct thorough risk assessments that consider the unique dynamics of each shared workplace. Identify potential hazards specific to your lone worker/s and develop tailored safety protocols. Unlike your own site/office, where you control the work environment, pay particular attention to the risks of an uncontrolled environment and who could be in it.
- Use of Technology: Leverage technology to enhance lone worker safety. Personal safety devices, such as GPS trackers and emergency alert systems, can provide an added layer of security. Implement regular check-ins to ensure the lone worker’s wellbeing.
- Safety Officers: Appoint designated Safety Supervisors who will be responsible for overseeing the implementation and adherence to safety protocols. These officers can serve as points of contact for lone workers to report concerns and seek guidance.
What Does Effective Safety Look Like in Practice?
Consider the example of Emma, an architect who uses a co-working space twice a week. Here’s how effective safety measures can be implemented in her situation:
- Risk Assessment: You have completed a thorough risk assessment, identifying potential hazards such as electrical equipment, shared kitchen facilities, and emergency evacuation routes. Specific attention is given to the needs of lone workers like Emma, who might be in the space when it’s less populated or not surrounded by other working staff from your own organisation
- Training: Emma, along with other users of the space, participates in quarterly safety training sessions. These sessions cover emergency procedures, first aid basics, and how to use the safety equipment available on-site.
- Technology: Emma is provided with a mobile app equipped with an emergency alert system. It also has a periodic check-in procedure, so that as her employer, you are automatically alerted if she doesn’t check in at the required duration.
- Safety Officer: The App alerts someone within your own organisation when a check-in is missed, or an alert is sounded. That safety Supervisor will ensure that all safety protocols are being followed and offer immediate assistance. Having a GPS location ensures that the supervisor knows where the employee actually is.
These measures not only enhance Emma’s safety but also foster a culture of safety and collaboration despite her working from a shared co-working space.
What Can We Conclude About Lone Worker Safety in Shared Workplaces?
It sounds strange that you can be a “Lone worker” in a shared workplace with other people around, but each organisation has a legal duty of care for their staff. The staff faces distinct safety challenges that require proactive and comprehensive strategies to address. By understanding these risks and implementing simple, effective safety measures, employers can create a safer working environment that benefits all parties involved. As the trend of shared workplaces continues to grow, prioritising the safety of lone workers will remain crucial in ensuring their wellbeing and productivity.
Get started on Lone Worker Safety Today!
Ensuring the safety of lone workers is a moral imperative. As we’ve explored, effective risk assessments, clear communication channels, consistent safety training, and leveraging technology are vital components in creating a secure working environment, wherever that may be. These technologies can also be used, not only to monitor safety at that moment but also more general wellbeing throughout the week, month, year.
If you’re looking to enhance the safety of your lone workers, consider the comprehensive solutions offered by MyTeamSafe. Our technology and dedicated support can help you implement robust safety protocols, ensuring peace of mind for both employers and employees.
Visit today to learn how we can help you safeguard your lone workers and foster a culture of safety. Your team deserves the best protection—take the first step with MyTeamSafe and ask about our FREE TRIAL !!
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