If a lone employee encounters an emergency or is injured on the job, that person may have difficulty finding help. Falls and violence are examples of hazards that lone workers face. Canada-based WorkSafeBC has the following advice for employees who work alone in environments such as late-night convenience stores:
- Identify areas and homes where employees can retreat and call for help.
- Ensure vehicles are parked close to the building, especially during late shifts.
- Raise areas where cash registers are located.
- Avoid handling money near entrances and exits.
- Drop boxes, safes and strong rooms should be out of sight.
- Ensure bank deposits are not made at night.
- Always check on employees at the end of their shift.
- Develop a procedure to follow if an employee cannot be contacted.
- Keep outside areas well lit.
- Make sure back doors lock from the outside, while obeying fire codes.
- Install a panic or emergency alarm.