Lone working risks – what many employers overlook

2026-02-17

Lone working involves risks that are frequently underestimated – delayed help, threats and communication failures chief among them. Many employers lack the right procedures and technology, which can have serious consequences.

Lone working is more common than many realise

From facilities managers and security guards to home care workers and field technicians – thousands of people work every day without direct contact with colleagues. HSE guidance makes clear that lone working requires a specific risk assessment and appropriate control measures [1]. Understanding the risks is essential – not just to comply with the law but to genuinely protect staff.

The most common lone working risks

Delayed help after an accident – If an accident occurs, it may be a long time before anyone notices. The consequences are often more serious than necessary – precisely because help does not arrive in time.

Threats and violence – Lone workers face a higher risk of threats and violence, particularly in home care, security and customer-facing roles. Without colleagues nearby, there is no support and no witness.

Communication failure – Many employers rely on mobile phones, but what happens if the battery dies, there is no signal, or the person cannot make a call themselves?

Stress and anxiety – Working alone can create anxiety, particularly in exposed environments or during evening hours. This affects both wellbeing and performance [2].

Inadequate risk assessment – One of the most significant gaps is that employers carry out assessments that are too generic. Common failures: assessments are done once and not reviewed, specific scenarios are not considered, lone working is treated as “low risk”. Read about HSE requirements for lone working.

What many employers overlook

Despite clear guidance, many organisations have no defined response chain – who acts when something goes wrong? They also rely on technology that is not fit for purpose and have no means of rapidly detecting an incident. Safety at the workplace for HR managers sets out the practical steps required. Failure to meet the requirements can also lead to serious legal consequences.

A personal alarm with man-down alert increases workplace safety

Sensorem’s personal alarm is designed specifically to increase safety for lone workers. The alarm has an automatic man-down alert that calls alarm recipients via the watch’s built-in speakerphone. The alarm works outdoors and has built-in GPS positioning.