Most organisations will have a documented Policy on when you should use StaySafe and what their definition of Lone Working is. You should always ask your colleagues as to what your organisations approach is to Lone Working, as it can often be different between organisations.
"Lone workers are those who work by themselves without close or direct supervision”
Lone working is a broad term that applies differently to every industry, and therefore careful consideration should be taken on how it affects you.
These are the items that you should consider:
Firstly, you should consider why your organisation has decided to procure StaySafe. There is usually a workplace hazard identified that means StaySafe is required, scenarios where you are exposed to these hazards are likely to be the times you should use StaySafe.
Secondly, you should consider the length of time you are spending alone. Spending more time alone increases the risk, as your absence will go unnoticed for longer if something does happen.
Thirdly, you should consider the distance you are from your nearest colleague. If you are in a remote location, you are at an increased risk, as it will take Responders increased time to get to you if you need assistance.
There are 3 types of risks commonly faced by Lone Workers, you should consider these:
People Risk: Many employees faces risks from the people they come into contact with, this could be members of the public, or it could be customers that you come into contact with. Occasions where you are in a "closed door" situation or when alone at night are of particular risk to Lone Workers. For example, Realtor/Estate Agents.
Environmental Risk: These risks are more commonly associated with employees who are at greater risk of slip's, trips and falls. This also includes employees who are at greater risk of injury from machinery/equipment they are installing or maintaining. For example, Telecoms infrastructure maintenance.
Geographical Risk: This usually applies to employees who are working in remote or inaccessible locations. Where, if they were to be in trouble, would find it hard to communicate that there is an issue. For example, working in a mountainous area or in a Data Centre.
You should always ask when you should be using StaySafe, as your organisation will have identified risk(s) that are mitigated by StaySafe.
Next Steps?
Find out How to Get Started in the StaySafe App, the Different Types of Alerts and the Different Ways to Panic.