Violence and threats at work – how to protect lone workers

2026-03-03

Violence and threats at work affect thousands of employees in the UK every year – and the risk is greatest for those who work alone. Employers have a clear legal duty to prevent these risks [1].

What counts as violence and threats at work?

Violence and threats do not always mean physical injury. They include verbal threats, aggressive behaviour, harassment and physical violence. Situations that are experienced as threatening harm the working environment and must be taken seriously by employers [1].

Why is the risk greater for lone workers?

In lone working situations, employees lack direct colleague support. No one can interrupt a threatening situation, no one can quickly call for help, and there are no witnesses. Read about lone working risks and safety for home care workers.

Employer responsibilities

Under HASAWA 1974 and the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999, employers must prevent risks of violence and threats [1][2]:

  • Carry out a risk assessment that includes violence and threat risks
  • Train staff in conflict management and personal safety
  • Ensure staff can raise a discreet and immediate alert
  • Follow up on incidents and update procedures

Failures can lead to serious legal consequences. Read about safety at the workplace for HR managers.

Personal alarm with silent mode – essential in threatening situations

In threatening situations it is critical that an alarm can be activated discreetly. Sensorem’s personal alarm can be pre-programmed to alert silently – bystanders hear nothing, but the alert is still sent. Read about personal alarms in unsafe situations.

A personal alarm with man-down alert increases workplace safety

Sensorem’s personal alarm has an automatic man-down alert that calls alarm recipients via the watch’s built-in speakerphone with two-way communication. The alarm works outdoors and has built-in GPS positioning.

 

READ ABOUT SENSOREM’S PERSONAL ALARM FOR LONE WORKERS

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