Discover essential strategies for navigating lone worker risks present in industrial areas.
Identifying common hazards in industrial areas
When working in industrial areas, lone workers face various hazards that can jeopardise their safety. It is crucial to identify common hazards to mitigate the associated risks.
1. Machinery and equipment
Working in industrial areas often means working with heavy machinery and equipment that can cause serious injuries if not used properly. It's important to be aware of the potential dangers and follow safety protocols when operating or working near these machines.
2. Chemical substances
Many industrial processes involve the use of hazardous chemicals. To fulfil a role safely it's critical that lone workers are trained to identify and handle these substances safely to prevent accidents or exposure.
3. Falling objects
Industrial areas may have overhead cranes, shelves, or structures that can pose a risk of falling objects. To prevent injury Lone workers need to be vigilant and wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) to minimise the risk of head injuries or other accidents.
4. Noise
An industrial environment can be noisy and expose workers to prolonged periods of loud noises or vibrations. This can lead to hearing loss or other health issues. It is important for lone workers to use hearing protection and take regular breaks to reduce the impact of noise.
5. Trips, slips, and falls
Trips slips and falls are a common hazard in industrial areas as they often have uneven surfaces, slippery floors, or debris in the working environment. Lone workers should ensure proper housekeeping and wear suitable footwear to prevent accidents. By using personal safety devices, an alert can quickly be raised by the device for a rapid response, by pressing the SOS button or using fall detection features.
Recognising these hazards can help minimise the risk of injury or incidents, by enabling organisations and individuals to take proactive measures to protect lone workers. Read on for more detailed tips and safety measures for lone working in an industrial environment.
Implementing safety measures
Lone workers in industrial areas should follow specific safety measures to ensure their own safety. Here are some essential safety measures that can be implemented.
Training and education: Employers should provide comprehensive training to lone workers on industrial safety practices and procedures. This includes proper use of equipment, handling hazardous substances, emergency response protocols and recognising potential risks.
Personal protective equipment (PPE): Lone workers should wear appropriate PPE based on the hazards present in industrial areas. This includes wearing safety helmets, goggles, gloves, high-visibility clothing and respiratory protection. PPE can also help to minimise the risk of injuries and exposure to hazardous substances in working environments where chemicals are present.
Regular communication: It's critical that lone workers have a reliable means of checking in and raising an alert to report emergencies, accidents, or safety concerns. Devices come in a range of wearable options to suit different working environments, and can help streamline communication between supervisors and lone workers. Regular check-ins with supervisors or colleagues can also help foster a supportive working environment, by prioritising the wellbeing of lone workers.
Risk assessments: Conducting regular risk assessments is crucial in identifying potential hazards. The findings of a risk assessment can then be proactively used to implement appropriate safety measures. Organisations should aim to regularly review and update risk assessments to address any changes in their team's working environment or tasks.
Using technology for enhanced safety
In today's digital age, lone workers can benefit from various lone worker solutions to enhance their safety. Here are some technologies that are available and that can easily be implemented.
Providing lone workers with dedicated devices can be a valuable safety measure. These devices allow lone workers to quickly alert others in case of immediate danger or threats for a rapid response. Devices often come in a number of wearable options such as the Lone Worker Safety Watch. The Safety Watch is easy to wear and can easily raise alerts at the push of a button, through lack of movement or by detecting a fall.
The Lone Worker App is specifically designed for the safety of lone workers. It provides reliable features like check-in, two-way communication, login with biometrics and an emergency mode feature which shows details of an alert after it has been raised.
Emergency response protocols
Having well defined emergency response protocols is crucial for lone workers in industrial areas. Here are some areas that should never be overlooked.
Emergency contact information: Lone workers should have access to a list of emergency contact numbers, including their supervisors, colleagues, and others such as a response ARC (Alarm Receiving Centre). They should know who to contact in different types of emergencies.
Emergency evacuation plans: Employers should develop and communicate clear evacuation plans for different scenarios, such as fires, chemical spills, or natural disasters. Lone workers should be familiar with these plans and know the designated assembly points.
First aid training: Lone workers should receive basic first aid training to provide immediate assistance in case of injuries or medical emergencies. This can help stabilise the situation until professional medical help arrives.
Incident reporting procedures: Lone workers should be aware of any procedures for reporting incidents, accidents, or near misses. They should know how to document and communicate these incidents to ensure proper investigations and preventive measures.
By identifying the above common industrial risks and implementing safety procedures, lone worker technology and well established emergency response protocols, lone workers will be in a better position to effectively handle risks and emergencies, therefore minimising the potential impact on their safety and wellbeing.
