Working Alone Regulations Around the World
Many countries have safety regulations for Working Alone or in Isolation. The following are links to some information about various lone worker regulations internationally.
UNITED KINGDOM
In the United Kingdom, the main legislation covering occupational health and safety is covered by the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974. In the United Kingdom there are no specific laws governing working alone. However, employers are required under these regulations to assess risks in the workplace and take preventative measures when risks are identified.
NEW ZEALAND
In New Zealand, the Health and Safety at Work ACT 2015, requires all employees who are working alone or in isolation to maintain regular contact with their employer. If regular contact is not possible, all employees must check in with a designated person at a regular time interval and must have a means of getting help in case of an accident or emergency.
AUSTRALIA
Australia introduced legislation in January 2014 to protect lone workers, making it compulsory for employers to monitor the health and well-being of any of their employees working remotely or in isolated conditions. Lone worker legislation is approved under the code of practice under section 274 of the Work Health and Safety Act (the WHS Act).
IRELAND
Established in 1989 under the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act, Ireland's Health and Safety Authority (HAS) defines lone workers as, "those who work by themselves without close or direct supervision. Anybody who works alone, including contractors, self-employed people and employee, is classed as a lone worker."