Working alone – rules, risks, legal duties and how to stay safe

Definition

What is lone working – and when does it apply?

Lone working refers to situations where an employee performs their duties without direct supervision or the immediate presence of colleagues. This can occur at any time of day in a variety of industries and environments.

What counts as lone working?

According to the Swedish Work Environment Authority (Arbetsmiljöverket), a person is considered a lone worker when they carry out tasks in isolation, without the possibility of immediate assistance from others in the event of an accident or emergency. This takes into account both physical and psychological isolation, such as working outside normal hours, in remote locations, or in areas where contact with other people is limited.

Some examples of lone working are:

  • Security guards patrolling premises outside regular hours
  • Cleaners working after office hours
  • Maintenance staff attending remote facilities
  • Delivery drivers on solitary routes
  • Healthcare professionals working night shifts
  • Retail employees opening or closing stores alone

What are the rules for lone working?

When is lone working not allowed?

As a rule, lone working is prohibited in cases where it poses an unacceptable risk to the worker’s health or safety. This includes high-risk activities such as working with toxic substances, in confined spaces, or with complex machinery. In these instances, it is the employer’s duty to assess the situations and enforce appropriate safety measures.

What laws apply to lone working?

In Sweden, lone working is regulated by several laws designed to protect worker safety and meet legal standards. These include:

For more detailed information, visit the Swedish Work Environment Authority’s official website and legal texts.

Employer responsibilities – what must be in place?

Identifying, assessing and managing risks

Employers are legally required to identify, assess, and manage risks associated with lone working. This involves:

  • Conducting thorough risk assessments for all lone working scenarios
  • Implementing measures to eliminate or minimise identified risks
  • Regularly reviewing and updating risk assessments

 

Training, procedures, and safety equipment

Employers must make sure that lone workers receive appropriate training, understand safety procedures, and have access to necessary safety equipment. This includes:

  • Instruction on emergency protocols
  • Training in the use of personal safety devices
  • Regular drills and information updates

Legal consequences of ignoring lone worker protection

Failing to follow lone worker regulations can have serious legal consequences for employers in Sweden. Not only can it lead to legal action and financial penalties, but it can also damage the company’s reputation. If an incident occurs, the authorities may investigate. If it turns out that proper safety precautions weren’t in place at the time of the incident, the company could face sanctions or even be held legally responsible.

Step-by-step guide to lone working risk assessment

Common risks to look out for

There are a variety of hazards to consider when carrying out a risk assessment for lone workers. These may include the risk of slips, trips and falls in isolated areas, the possibility of medical emergencies where help may be delayed, exposure to violence or threats from the public or equipment failure without immediate support.

Examples of risky lone work situations

Many real-life jobs involve lone working that carries significant dangers. A technician servicing electrical equipment at a remote substation must deal with risks from the equipment itself and the isolated environment. A social worker visiting clients in areas they don’t know well might face unpredictable circumstances. Likewise, a shop assistant closing a store after hours can be exposed to threats like robbery or assault.

The hidden risks of working alone

The dangers of working alone extend beyond the obvious physical threats; it also carries hidden risks that can significantly influence health and wellbeing. Some of these risks include:

  • Physical hazards: Lone workers are more prone to injuries from accidents and fatigue, particularly during night shifts when help is limited.
  • Psychological strain: Isolation and the burden of managing emergencies alone can lead to stress and anxiety.
  • Threats and violence: Those in vulnerable positions may face threats or violence, often with limited access to immediate support.

Lone working safety checklist

Before the shift – what must be prepared?

Before a shift, it is essential to ensure that all risk assessments are up to date and that the lone worker has access to reliable communication devices. Emergency procedures should be reviewed, and any personal alarms or tracking systems must be checked to confirm they are fully functional.

During work – communication and emergency routines

It’s crucial to stay in touch with supervisors or coworkers during the shift. This means using the designated communication tools and sticking to check-in routines. In case of an emergency, the worker must follow established emergency procedures to get help as quickly as possible.

After the shift – follow-up and incident reporting

After completing a shift, lone workers should report any incidents, near-misses, or safety concerns to their employer. Participating in debriefings or safety meetings is important for sharing experiences and identifying areas for improvement. If new risks are found during the shift, the risk assessment should be updated accordingly.

Our solution

Staying safe with personal alarms

Our personal alarms provide an immediate way for lone workers to signal for help during cases of emergency. A single button press connects them to the right supervisors, security personnel, or emergency responders, creating a crucial safety net for isolated employees.

Many modern personal alarms are equipped with advanced features, such as GPS tracking, two-way communication, and automatic fall detection. This technology enables responders to locate the worker swiftly and assess the situation, even if the individual is unable to communicate verbally.

Personal alarms

Real-world examples of safety solutions

Nowadays, digital tools and mobile applications are often used to enhance the safety of lone workers. Some apps allow workers to check in at regular intervals, automated alert systems can be triggered if a worker fails to respond, and GPS tracking can be used to monitor the location of employees in real time. Some platforms also offer features such as panic buttons, discreet alerts, and integration with emergency services.

Many organisations across different sectors have successfully adopted safety systems with real, measurable benefits. Utility companies, for instance, use GPS-enabled alarms to ensure field workers can get immediate help during emergencies. In healthcare, mobile apps help monitor staff on home visits, reducing risks such as violence or medical incidents going unnoticed. Plenty of retail chains have implemented personal alarms and scheduled check-ins for employees working late, causing a decrease in incidents and greater staff reassurance.

5 things you should never forget about lone working

Working alone is never risk-free. That’s why it’s important for employers to uphold legal standards, assess risks continuously, and supply the right training and equipment. In these scenarios, having regular check-ins and solid emergency procedures in place can save lives.

Here are some key takeaways on the topic:

  • Employers are legally required to assess and manage risks for lone workers.
  • Not all tasks are suitable for lone working (and therefore, risk assessment is essential).
  • Training, clear procedures, and safety equipment are crucial for lone worker protection.
  • Regular communication and emergency routines must be established and maintained.
  • Ignoring lone worker safety can have serious legal and human consequences.