Ideas and Insights
for Safety Champions

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. 

Lone worker safety is a crucial concern for employers, as these individuals face unique risks and demand specific measures to ensure their security and well-being. It's essential for employers to comply with their legal obligations, fulfilling their duty of care by taking reasonable precautions to safeguard lone workers from harm. 

To accomplish this, organizations must be well-versed in the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations, which establish and enforce safety standards to promote workplace safety and prevent injuries, illnesses, and fatalities in the United States. This article will examine key OSHA regulations relevant to lone worker safety, the significance of duty of care, and offer practical tips on safeguarding lone workers in the workplace.  

By Brye Sargent, CSP

Over the last several years, there’s been a shift in the workplace.  As companies are evolving to better serve their customers, the number of employees who work by themselves is on the rise.  The lone worker has increasingly become a common method for meeting the needs of clients and increasing company sales.  

A lone worker is an employee who works by themselves without close or direct supervision. There are a number of dangers associated with this type of work, including the potential for accidents or injuries; violence or aggression, and even theft or other criminal activity. However, the most dangerous aspect is the fact that workers are alone and there is no one else around to help in the event of an accident or emergency. Without timely assistance minor issues have the potential to turn into major incidents.