Why lone worker safety matters
Lone working has its advantages for businesses and customers, but it also brings challenges. A key concern is ensuring employees remain safe and well.
In many European countries, including Ireland, it is a legal requirement to protect employees who are working alone or in higher-risk environments. The costs of workplace incidents, both financial and reputational, can be significant.
There is also a moral responsibility to protect employees and do the right thing. Companies today are increasingly prioritising values and purpose, and this includes employee safety.
Many industries have moved from assigning two people to a task to just one, supported by advances in technology. The business landscape has also shifted since Covid, with more remote working and fewer people in offices. For example, in petrol stations, roles that were once separate are now often combined, resulting in more lone workers.
The changing lone worker landscape
In 2023, the BERG Insight study found that around 236 million people were employed in Europe. Of these, about four million work in industries where lone workers are common. This does not even include office workers or those working from home.
There is a common misconception that lone workers do not exist in busy environments. However, if you work in a busy building and spend most of your time alone, you are considered a lone worker. This represents a shift in perception for businesses, particularly as lone working becomes more widespread across different roles and environments.
Lone worker technology has evolved significantly over the past five years, driven by the rise of app-based solutions, expanded network coverage through eSIMs, and the integration of wearable smart watch devices. As lone working continues to grow, so too does the need for reliable and effective safety solutions. According to the BERG Insight report, the lone worker market in Europe is expected to grow to €178 million by 2029, representing a CAGR of 4.5%.
A cultural shift in expectations around lone worker safety is also shaping the business security landscape. Just as helmets and protective footwear became standard on construction sites, the use of lone worker devices is expected to become the norm as organisations place greater focus on protecting employees who work alone and supporting their well-being.
Lone working in Ireland
Lone working is on the rise across Ireland, along with the risks that come with it. Whether employees are in healthcare, construction, utilities, or security, ensuring their safety is not just a legal requirement but also a moral responsibility.
Employers must comply with the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005, which requires thorough risk assessments for lone workers, the implementation of appropriate controls such as communication systems, training, and emergency plans, and ensuring they are afforded the same level of protection as supervised staff.
Additional requirements apply to higher-risk tasks, including working at height or in confined spaces. The core duty is to provide a safe working environment, meaning that the specific risks associated with lone working must be identified, minimised, and managed through suitable systems, including for remote and home workers.
Protecting employees
The rise of lone working is a significant trend in today’s workforce. Businesses need to adapt by implementing safety solutions to protect their employees. It is not just about compliance; it is about doing the right thing and ensuring the well-being of those who work alone.
In certain industries, such as transport and logistics, there is a shortage of workers, and companies that demonstrate a genuine commitment to employee well-being are better placed to attract and retain talent.
As the landscape continues to evolve, organisations that prioritise safety will be better positioned to succeed.
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