Solo Safety

Solo workers are easy targets. Those who work alone in stores, gas stations, or other such jobs are considered easy targets by thieves, especially at night. Make your employees aware of all the precautions you are taking to reduce the hazards for solo employees, such as:

• Having surveillance cameras in plain view of customers
• Having a limited access safe or comparable device in the store
• Limiting the amount of cash to which employees have access
• Posting signs notifying customers of these security measures
• Lighting the store’s approach area and parking lot at night
• Keeping the windows and outside of the building clear so that employees can have an unobstructed view outside
• Providing crime prevention training for employees
• Having a hidden button that sends an alarm to the local police in an emergency

In addition to what an employer is doing, workers also need to know how they can help to keep themselves safe. Train them to:

• Be alert for anyone who seems to be watching from outside and who may be waiting for a time when they are alone.
• Monitor the surveillance cameras carefully, especially if a customer seems to be wandering around the store for longer than normal.
• Not hesitate to use their alarm button if they sense trouble.

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There are many other jobs that may involve working alone. These include taxi drivers, delivery persons, outside salespeople, or home healthcare workers. Give the employees in each of these jobs specific training. For example:

• Assess each situation on a case-by-case basis.
• Establish a check-in procedure with a designated contact, use a daily work schedule, or report whenever they change their location.
• Establish procedures to follow in case of a vehicle breakdown.

In addition, lone workers in a remote section of a building may be at risk. They need an established check-in procedure, too. Ask these questions about your solo safety procedures:

• Is voice contact sufficient, or should there be visual contact with workers as well?
• What hazards will workers face in performing their duties?
• What special protections should be established for security guards?

Always make sure your employees know that asking for assistance is not a sign of weakness—and they will not be disciplined in case they ask for help, even for a minor incident. If a close call does occur, investigate it, record it, and review solo safety procedures in case changes or improvements are needed.

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Why It Matters

• Working alone presents extra dangers for your solo employees.
• Employees who work alone may, therefore, require extra safety and security training.
• Making sure your solo employees, as well as all your employees, are safe and secure is critical to maintaining a confident and productive workplace.

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