Episode 236 - Occupational Safety - Lone Worker Policy

Dr. Ayers challenges safety leaders to think seriously about lone worker policies — especially for employees who are the first to arrive or the last to leave. The episode asks a simple but often overlooked question:

What tasks should employees be allowed to perform when they are completely alone in the workplace?

 

🧠 Key Themes

1. Someone Is Always Alone at Some Point

• Early arrivals, late closers, weekend staff, and remote workers all face periods of working alone.

• Many organizations overlook these moments when assessing risk.

2. Define What’s Allowed — and What’s Not

Dr. Ayers encourages leaders to clearly outline:

• Which tasks are safe for lone workers

• Which tasks require a second person

• What equipment or areas are off‑limits when alone

This prevents employees from making risky judgment calls.

3. Risk Changes When No One Else Is Around

The episode highlights hazards that become more dangerous when working alone:

• Medical emergencies

• Slips, trips, and falls

• Equipment malfunctions

• Security threats

• Chemical or mechanical exposures

Without another person present, response time increases dramatically.

4. Policy Is Only Half the Battle

A good lone worker policy must also include:

• Training

• Communication expectations

• Check‑in procedures

• Emergency response plans

• Clear accountability

 

🚀 Leadership Takeaways

• Don’t assume “normal tasks” are safe when done alone.

• Define boundaries clearly so employees aren’t forced to guess.

• Build check‑in systems that are simple and reliable.

• Review lone worker scenarios regularly