To get a PDF, choose "Save as PDF" as the printer.

1. Module 1. Who lone workers are and the law

   A lone worker is anyone who works by themselves without close or direct supervision. Working alone is not against the law, but it brings extra risks that must be managed.

   What you will learn

   • Recognise who counts as a lone worker.
   • Explain the extra risks of working alone.
   • Describe the employer's and employee's duties in the UK.

   Key points

   • A lone worker works without close or direct supervision, including people out of sight of colleagues.
   • Extra risks: no help in an emergency, violence, high-risk tasks and isolation.
   • Employers must assess the risks and put controls in place; some work should not be done alone.
   • Employees must follow procedures and use the equipment provided.

   Based on: Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974; Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999; HSE guidance INDG73, Protecting lone workers.

2. Module 2. Planning safe lone work

   Most lone-working risks can be managed with good planning, clear procedures and simple equipment.

   What you will learn

   • Use check-in and buddy systems.
   • Choose suitable lone-worker devices and emergency procedures.
   • Decide which tasks should not be done alone.

   Key points

   • Plan the task, the person, emergency help, check-ins and what to do if things go wrong.
   • Agree check-ins and a clear plan for missed check-ins.
   • Carry a charged phone or alarm; know where the first aid kit is.
   • Do not do high-risk tasks alone.

   Based on: Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974; Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999; HSE guidance INDG73, Protecting lone workers.

3. Module 3. Personal safety, violence and aggression

   Lone workers who deal with the public can face aggression. Staying calm, keeping your distance and having a plan reduce the risk.

   What you will learn

   • Recognise early warning signs of aggression.
   • Use techniques to calm a situation.
   • Know when to leave and how to report incidents.

   Key points

   • Watch for early warning signs of aggression.
   • Stay calm, listen, keep a safe distance and an exit route.
   • Your safety comes first: leave, raise the alarm, call 999. Never resist a robbery.
   • Report every incident, ask for support, and expect a review of the risks.

   Based on: Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974; Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999; HSE guidance INDG73, Protecting lone workers.

HygieneReady certificates confirm completion of training. They are not a regulated qualification. Definitions of the key terms are in the glossary.