________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
The hidden
RISKS
Why safety must be a priority. By Rob Gilbert
Every lone worker can be a moment away from a threat. That’ s, unfortunately, the harsh reality of modern field services. Yet, many organizations may not fully realize the extent of their responsibility. When a worker is alone, danger isn’ t distant. It’ s slipping on an icy pavement. It’ s falling from a height when no one is around. It’ s a dark car park in winter.
But what’ s more worrying is that these aren’ t made-up scenarios. It’ s the real, everyday reality for lone workers in the UK and worldwide.
Reports of assaults, threats, and accidents involving lone workers have surged year-onyear- with the HSE reporting 642,000 attacks in 23 / 24- and the safety net is often stretched far too thin. The consequences? They can be severe, impacting both worker well-being and business continuity.
The misconception of risk
One in four of the UK’ s working population is classed as a lone worker, but who makes up these workers? Many picture an emergency response worker or night security guard. That
24