Lone Working

Lone workers are those who work by themselves without close or direct supervision, for example as delivery drivers, health workers, engineers, security staff or cleaners.

Currently lone workers represent between 15% and 25% of the UK workforce. That represents between 5 and 9 million people in the UK (as of Sept 2022, UK workforce was 35.8 million according to the Office for National Statistics).

There are many reasons people prefer working alone: 

• Less distraction
• Easier to concentrate on your ultimate goals 
• More opportunity for individual creativity

But lone working also comes with risks that include violence in the workplace, stress and mental health issues. The feeling of loneliness also arises because of extended periods of isolation. When you’re in an office or part of a team that works in the same physical space, it’s easier to communicate with each other. It’s more difficult for lone workers to discuss issues or have general catch-up conversations with their colleagues. The significance of this comes to the fore when lone workers are facing emotionally challenging or traumatic workplace situations.

Let us help you improve the safety of your lone working experience so you can follow the appropriate measures in line with legislative requirements with confidence. Contact Irwin Edgehill Training by calling 07842 435921, email info@irwinedgehilltraining.co.uk or by completing our contact form.