Have you considered the dangers of lone working in retail? Across the retail sector, the issue of lone working in retail is in the spotlight. Too many employees are left to run stores single-handedly. They face risks that threaten both their safety and wellbeing. But retail staff are now speaking out, sharing experiences and demanding change to end unsafe working practices.
Lone Working Safety Risks in Retail
Lone worker personal safety is one of the biggest concerns. The dangers of lone working in retail and hospitality come from the workers working in an “uncontrolled” environment that is open to the public, unlike factories and offices. They are vulnerable to aggressive customers, shoplifting, and even violent incidents involving weapons. Some employees are so fearful that they close stores early, prioritising their safety over sales. Evening shifts and isolated locations only increase this danger.
The Impact on Workload and Wellbeing
Lone working is not just a safety issue; it can also create an impossible workload. Employers often expect a single retail worker to serve customers, process deliveries, restock shelves, and complete admin tasks all at once. This constant pressure leads to stress, burnout, reduced service quality and declining mental health.
Why Minimum Staffing Levels Are Essential
Businesses with public-facing retail must take the dangers of lone working seriously. Employers should maintain minimum staffing levels to protect workers and customers. Ideally, every shift should have at least two or three staff:
- One on the shop floor
- One in the backroom
- Cover for breaks and emergencies
Anything less is unsafe. Some businesses argue that lone working is rare or short-term, but it still counts as LONE WORKING! With one member of staff working alone, the risks increase. Cutting costs by reducing staff numbers may save money in the short term, but the long-term cost is higher: increased risk, low morale, and a workforce that feels unsafe and undervalued.
How can the risk be reduced?
Employers should never expect one person to run a store alone. Setting minimum staffing levels is not just best practice it is essential for protecting lives, supporting staff wellbeing, and securing the future of retail and hospitality. As always the starting point is a Risk Assessment but for lone working store/hospitality this is even more critical and more detailed. Because if you can’t control the environment, you need to review and factor in more scenarios.
But if working alone is the only option, even for a short amount of time. Employers have a duty of care and MUST take action. They need to implement proper risk assessments, listen to staff feedback and concerns, and be committed to ending unsafe lone working practices. Protecting staff means protecting your business. With MyTeamSafe, you can do just that, and with a month free trial, with no obligation, today seems a great day to make a start!
MyTeamSafe® is an award-winning lone-worker App & proud supporter of the Suzy Lamplugh Trust