Lone Worker Safety Checklist for Insurance
A safety checklist for managing the risks associated with employees who work alone or in isolation, covering communication, check-in procedures, and emergency response.
Aligns with ASIC regulatory requirements, General Insurance Code of Practice, and AFSL obligations. Includes audit trail provisions.
Complete Checklist
- 1Conduct a risk assessment specific to the lone working situationCritical
- 2Confirm the worker is fit and competent to perform the tasks aloneCritical
- 3Ensure the worker has a reliable means of communication at all timesCritical
- 4Establish a check-in schedule with agreed times and escalation proceduresCritical
- 5Verify the worker knows who to contact in an emergency and how
- 6Provide a personal duress alarm or safety device if working in high-risk situations
- 7Ensure the worker has access to first aid supplies at their location
- 8Brief the worker on hazards specific to the work location and tasks
- 9Confirm that the worker's vehicle is roadworthy if driving to remote locations
- 10Provide a means of tracking the worker's location if working in remote areas
- 11Review the weather forecast and postpone if conditions create unacceptable risk
- 12Ensure the worker has adequate food, water, and shelter provisions if working remotely
- 13Confirm the expected completion time and procedure for notifying when work is finished
- 14Document the lone working arrangement and retain the record
- 15Review the lone working risk assessment regularly and after any incidents
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key risks associated with lone working?
Key risks include delayed emergency response if the worker is injured or becomes ill, exposure to violence or aggression without backup, inability to call for help if communication fails, increased vulnerability to environmental hazards, and psychological impacts of isolation. The level of risk depends on the nature of the work, the location, and the worker's experience and fitness.
Are there specific legal requirements for lone workers in Australia?
While there is no specific lone worker legislation in Australia, the general duty under WHS law to ensure health and safety so far as is reasonably practicable applies to all working arrangements including lone work. This means conducting risk assessments, implementing controls, and providing information, training, and supervision appropriate to the risks. Some industries have additional requirements in codes of practice or regulations.
What communication systems are suitable for lone workers?
Options include mobile phones with GPS tracking, satellite phones for areas without mobile coverage, two-way radios, personal duress alarms, and dedicated lone worker safety apps that include automatic check-in reminders, man-down detection, and GPS location sharing. The choice depends on the work environment and available infrastructure. Always have a backup communication method in case the primary fails.
Need help implementing these checks into your daily operations?
Our team can build custom checklists integrated into your daily operations workflow.