Lone workers often perform essential tasks in various sectors such as healthcare, security, maintenance, and delivery services. While their contributions are invaluable, the risks they face are significant. One of the most pressing concerns is the frequency with which lone workers are attacked daily.
Understanding the scope of lone working
Lone workers are found in diverse industries and roles. From nurses making home visits, security guards patrolling isolated areas, to utility workers maintaining infrastructure in remote locations, the nature of their work often requires them to be alone. This isolation, while sometimes necessary, makes them vulnerable to various risks including accidents, medical emergencies, and unfortunately attacks.
The statistics
A huge number of jobs require people to be left alone and isolated and, while many of the hazards that lone workers face are similar to those faced by other workers, the risks involved may be greater because the worker is on their own. Statistics from the British Crime Survey indicate that as many as 150 lone workers are attacked, both physically and verbally, every day.
The victims of attacks are varied and take place across a number of industries and job roles where people can be found working alone. Figures from the TUC show that in retail alone, for example, 20,000 shop workers are attacked each year and an even greater number are exposed to threats of violence and verbal abuse.
While exact numbers can vary by region and industry, studies and reports consistently highlight the dangers faced by lone workers. These figures, alarming as they are, may only represent a fraction of the global issue. Similar patterns are observed in other countries with large lone worker populations.
Factors contributing to attacks
Several factors contribute to the high rate of attacks on lone workers:
- Isolation: Without the presence of colleagues or supervisors, lone workers are easy targets for opportunistic criminals.
- High risk environments: Many lone workers operate in high risk areas or during late hours, increasing their vulnerability.
- Lack of immediate support: In the event of an attack, the absence of immediate help can escalate the severity of the situation.
- Insufficient training: Not all lone workers receive adequate training on how to handle confrontations or dangerous situations.
Real life examples
- Healthcare workers: In homecare environments, nurses and social workers often enter unknown environments, putting them at risk of physical assault from patients or their families.
- Delivery drivers: Carrying valuable goods and money, delivery drivers can be prime targets for robbery, especially in less secure areas or during night shifts.
- Maintenance workers: Those who perform repairs and maintenance in secluded areas or during off-hours can encounter aggressive individuals or dangerous situations without warning.
Enhancing lone worker safety
Addressing the safety of lone workers requires a multi-faceted approach:
- Training and awareness: Providing comprehensive training on personal safety, conflict de-escalation and emergency procedures is crucial.
- Technology solutions: Utilising personal safety devices such as panic buttons and mobile apps, that allow lone workers to check in regularly can significantly enhance safety.
- Regular check ins: Implementing protocols for regular check ins so that lone workers can confirm if they are safe quickly and easily.
- Risk assessments: Conducting thorough risk assessments to identify and mitigate potential hazards in lone working environments.
- Policy development: Establishing and enforcing policies that prioritise the safety of lone workers, including emergency response plans and reporting procedures.
The reality of attacks on lone workers is a reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by those who work in isolation. By understanding the risks, advocating for better safety measures, and leveraging technology, we can create safer environments for lone workers. Their safety is not just a legal obligation but a moral one, ensuring that those who work alone are never truly on their own when it comes to protection and support.
For more information on lone working and protecting lone workers check out our website.
