Task-based Risks

In some cases, the very nature of the job invites a number of risks which are made significantly higher when performed by someone working alone.

They could be:

Dealing with cash
Using machinery or tools
In a security or enforcement role
Assessing for or denying a service
Discussing sensitive issues or delivering bad news
Carrying valuables, equipment or medical supplies

Working with machinery

Machines are now a vital asset to many organisations, capable of carrying out a wide range of tasks. It’s important to think about safety when working with them, especially when working alone, as they are easily capable of causing serious injury.

Every year, over 70,000 employees suffer non-fatal injuries; of these, 4% come from contact with machinery. In addition, around 7% of all workplace fatalities result from this type of accident.

All machinery needs to be maintained to manufacturer standards and all staff required to use machinery must be properly trained before being allowed to operate it. Employers also need to consider their response to any incident involving machinery, for example, how would the operator call for help if they are knocked unconscious or in a noisy environment?

Workplace transport

Employers have a legal duty to understand and execute their responsibilities in relation to workplace transport safety which is generally defined as “any activity involving vehicles used in a workplace.”

In Great Britain alone, there are more than 5,000 workplace accidents involving transport every year and around 50 of those involved fatalities.

Workplace vehicles should only be operated by trained and qualified drivers or under appropriate instruction and monitoring during training. An appropriate response process must be established in the event of a workplace transport incident.