Those working alone often come across the same hazards as any other employee. However, lone working carries with it an increased risk, as any dangers faced are encountered alone.
Unfortunately, violence and aggression are common within public-facing roles. When working alone and behind closed doors, the risk may be higher as lone employees can be seen as easier targets.
Working in locations away from the office which haven’t been risk assessed can expose employees to common workplace hazards such as trip hazards or aggressive animals.
Travelling on the road is one of the greatest and most uncontrollable risks workers around the world face each day. Travel risks are not always immediately considered, yet many spend time travelling between jobs and work sites.
If a lone worker suffers a medical emergency, such as a heart attack or fainting, receiving immediate support and alerting emergency services could prove difficult without colleagues nearby.