Ideas and Insights
for Safety Champions

In today's fast-paced and diverse work environments, employees frequently work as lone workers or in isolated conditions, posing unique challenges and risks to their safety and well-being. To ensure employee protection, organizations must develop and implement comprehensive Lone Worker Policies. These policies provide a crucial framework of guidelines and procedures to mitigate risks associated with working alone, fostering a safe and supportive work environment. This article explores the essential components of an effective Lone Worker Policy, including scope, lone worker definition, responsibilities, hazard assessment, hazard controls, working alone restrictions, training and records management. By understanding and incorporating these components, organizations can create a robust policy that safeguards their employees while promoting a culture of safety and shared accountability. 

Healthcare and social service professionals play an essential role in providing critical care and support to our communities. Unfortunately, they are also exposed to significant workplace violence risks, which can negatively impact their well-being and affect the quality of care they provide. In 2013, over one-quarter of fatalities in healthcare and social service settings resulted from assaults and violent acts, highlighting the pressing need for effective guidelines to address this issue. A recent report from WorkplaceBC revealed workplace claims related to violence increased 25 percent in the past five years with the vast majority of claims related to the health care and social services.  

Lone workers face unique safety risks while performing their job duties in isolated or remote locations without close supervision. To ensure their safety, companies need to implement a comprehensive lone worker safety solution that provides adequate protection. However, with so many options available, choosing the right safety solution can be challenging. In this article, we will discuss 10 essential factors to consider when selecting a lone worker safety solution. 

Safety planning is essential in establishing a secure and productive work environment for individual employees by identifying and mitigating potential hazards, as well as creating policies and procedures to ensure their well-being. To prevent accidents, reduce legal liability, and foster a safety-focused culture, it is critical to embrace a proactive approach to safety planning. Unfortunately, many organizations only prioritize safety after an incident occurs, opting for a reactive strategy instead of a proactive one. 

Community-based mental health workers play a critical role in providing support and care to individuals and families struggling with mental health issues. These professionals often work independently, visiting clients in their homes or various community settings. While this autonomy offers flexibility and the opportunity to build closer relationships with clients, it also presents unique safety and security challenges.