What is a lone worker risk assessment?

A lone working risk assessment is a process of identifying and assessing risks associated with a job role carried out by a lone worker.

When carrying out a risk assessment for lone working staff, you must consider hazards related to the work being carried out, the people they come into contact with and the different environments they travel and work in.

The purpose of the assessment is to identify what needs to be done to control health and safety risks for your lone workers.

How do I create a lone worker risk assessment?

Your lone working risk assessment should contain:

• The hazards identified
• Who might be harmed and how
• The procedures already in place to prevent harm and;
• What further action you will take to reduce risk

It is also useful to include on your written report who carried out the risk assessment, the date it was carried out, the date of any next steps and when the next review is due.

What is a dynamic risk assessment?

A dynamic risk assessment is the process of identifying risks in the current environment.

Unlike a traditional risk assessment, which is done in advance, a dynamic risk assessment is the practise of mentally observing, assessing and analysing an environment ‘on the spot’.

This is an important skill that enables employees to make decisions regarding their own safety in any situation and one you should consider providing additional training on.

Are lone working risk assessments a legal requirement?

Lone working risk assessments are a basic legal requirement and should be carried out for all employees. If you employ five or more people, you are legally required to write down and keep a record of your risk assessment. It is often kept as part of your Lone Worker Policy.