Page 17 - OHS, April/May 2025

noise. For example, a homecare nurse4 could carry a panic button
device or have location monitoring activated to ensure help can be
sent quickly if they need it immediately in a client’s home. Also, oil
and gas workers can wear gas-detection devices to prevent toxic
inhalation and unconsciousness.
Control Measures for Lone Worker Safety
Th e safety hazards that are identifi ed and measured for risk require
control measures and steps to manage and eliminate the danger
they present to lone workers. First consider engineering controls
that make physical changes to the workplace and any tools or
equipment. For example, in water treatment, automated chemical
dosing systems can be installed to reduce risky manual handling.
Next, look at administrative controls that make adjustments to
work practices, reducing exposure to lone worker hazards—these
include developing lone worker policies5 and specifi c safety train-
ing and education. Additionally, controls can include PPE, protec-
tive clothing, and gear such as arc-rated clothing for utility workers
and high-quality face masks for home healthcare workers.
Strengthening Organizational Safety
via Lone Worker Protection
Just because lone workers are physically or geographically apart
from the company, it does not mean their safety is also isolated.
Lone worker safety impacts the entire organization and its people.
A strong lone worker safety program is indicative of a strong safety
culture that recognizes the diff erent safety needs for people work-
ing alone or in remote areas—it can also help maintain compliance
with regulations and industry standards. By providing lone work-
ers with technologies and tools to keep them safe like emergency
communication channels and satellite tracking devices6, not only
are there occupational safety improvements, but according to the
National Safety Council7, there are cost-saving benefi ts as well
Power in the Four Principles
While there are only four core principles for industrial hygiene and
safety, by focusing on these key areas and principles for lone work-
ers, their safety will benefi t as well as the organization. Anticipa-
tion, recognition, evaluation, and control will help any workplace
address its safety hazards and issues. However, these principles are
particularly benefi cial for lone workers’ safety in their simplicity,
but more importantly, in the initiative-taking attitude towards
safety and preventing accidents before they occur. Preparation is
a powerful tool for lone worker safety, no matter which industry
it may be.
Gen Handley is a Marketing and Growth Coordinator for SafetyLine
Lone Worker, an automated, cloud-based lone worker monitoring
service that helps companies protect remote or isolated workers. Gen
has more than 10 years of freelance writing and marketing experience.
Boundary Monitoring
Multi-Agent Monitor
Monitor Emissions From Construction and Demolition Sites
The Guardian2 is designed to help you remain compliant with site
emission levels, utilising remote monitoring and reporting of noise,
dust, windspeed direction, vibration and Volatile Organic
Compounds. Powered by mains, solar or battery, the Guardian2 is
ideal for any location, it’s key features include:
Configurable sensors
Automated text/email alerts to multiple people
Mains, solar, or battery powered
Simple plug and play installation
Online data portal with optional FTP data transfer
For more information, please contact us: info-us@casellasolutions.com
For our full range of occupational monitoring solutions, visit our website:
www.casellasolutions.com
www.ohsonline.com APRIL/MAY 2021 | Occupational Health & Safety 15