Alone on the job

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.