Control Measures

IDevice Icon Control Measures

Lone Worker LO2 and LO4 help work out the most appropriate control measures. Control measures may include instruction, training, supervision, and protective equipment.

When working alone in isolated locations procedures / safe system is needed for:

1. Lifting operations. See HSE Lifting Leaflets

A procedure should worked out for a lone worker faced with lifting/moving a heavy load. When it is not safe to carry out particular jobs alone work needs to be planned so that an assistant is available.

2. Emergencies

In the event of illness or injury it will be vital to know where they are, so think about providing mobile telephones or radios where appropriate. An emergency plan needs to be prepared and rehearsed.

3. Regular

There should be a check at the end of each work period to make sure the worker has returned safely. There are a number of ways for people working alone to be in contact should anything happen. Most of these presume that the person working alone can communicate - either vocally (mobile / radio) or visually (bright clothing).

More Guidance Working Alone Guidance for Gamekeepers


IDevice Icon What is "Reasonably Practicable" when Lone Working?
When considering "reasonably practicable" an employer would have to balance the risks to people with costs. Regarding Lone Working, The risks are high if somebody dies as a result of lack of communication, and the costs a mobile connection in this day are probably low - although clearly impossible just few years ago.

What is 'reasonably practicable'?


Licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution 2.5 License

LANTRA Awards: Controlling Risks in Agriculture Level 3