Working alone can pose serious risks if not handled with care. Whether it’s a security guard patrolling at night or a maintenance technician fixing an isolated piece of equipment, lone workers face unique workplace hazards that require thoughtful planning and clear safety instructions. One effective way to manage these risks is by implementing a Safe System of Work (SSOW) specifically designed for those who work alone.

In this detailed guide, you’ll learn exactly how to develop and apply a robust SSOW for lone workers — and why doing so can save lives and build trust within your team.

Why a Safe System of Work Matters for Lone Workers

Imagine a delivery driver who travels remote roads late at night or a lab technician working after hours. If something goes wrong, help might not arrive quickly. This is where a strong system steps in — providing clear guidelines so employees know what to do in an emergency and how to prevent accidents in the first place.

Businesses that invest in structured safety measures also see a big difference in employee confidence and productivity. A comprehensive SSOW can reduce accidents, lower insurance costs, and demonstrate a company’s commitment to its people.

Many organizations look into professional safety training, like a NEBOSH IGC course in Pakistan, to gain up-to-date skills and meet safety compliance. These programs teach managers how to spot hazards, evaluate risks, and implement effective control measures.

Step 1: Identify Lone Working Roles

Start by listing every role that involves working alone. It’s easy to overlook some positions. For instance, a cleaner who stays late or a contractor who inspects equipment at a remote site might work alone for long hours without supervision.

Talk to your teams, supervisors, and safety officers to gather a complete picture. It helps to visit worksites and observe daily routines too.

Step 2: Pinpoint the Hazards

Next, carry out a risk assessment for each lone working role. Ask questions like:

• Could the person face violence or theft?
  
  

• Is there a risk of falls, electrical shocks, or chemical exposure?
  
  

• Are there medical conditions that could make working alone more dangerous?
  
  

Real-life example: A friend of mine worked in facility maintenance. He once fell from a ladder while replacing a light bulb in a deserted hallway. Because no one checked on him for hours, he suffered a more severe injury than he would have with immediate help. A proper SSOW would have included check-ins or buddy systems to prevent this.

Step 3: Decide on Control Measures

After spotting the hazards, decide how to reduce or eliminate them. Some practical ideas include:

• Installing panic alarms or lone worker devices.
  
  

• Using GPS tracking for staff in transit.
  
  

• Setting up a regular check-in schedule via phone or radio.
  
  

• Training workers to handle emergencies.
  
  

Always involve employees in this stage. They know the daily risks better than anyone else.

Step 4: Write Clear Procedures

Once control measures are planned, document them in a clear, step-by-step format. Use simple language and avoid jargon. A good SSOW should include:

• Purpose of the task
  
  

• Hazards identified
  
  

• Safety equipment needed
  
  

• Detailed steps for safe completion
  
  

• Emergency contacts and instructions
  
  

Make sure everyone understands the document — don’t just file it away.

Step 5: Train Your Workers

Even the best-written SSOW is useless if employees don’t know it exists. Hold training sessions that explain the procedures and allow staff to ask questions. Practical demonstrations help too. Reinforce this training regularly, especially when tasks or equipment change.

Step 6: Monitor and Review

Safety isn’t a one-time job. Once your SSOW is in place, monitor how it works in real life. Conduct spot checks, encourage workers to share feedback, and track any incidents or near misses.

Update the SSOW if you spot gaps. For example, if workers find the check-in system too complicated, simplify it or try another method.

Step 7: Foster a Supportive Culture

A system works best when backed by a positive safety culture. Lone workers should feel comfortable reporting problems or suggesting improvements. Managers should lead by example and never pressure staff to cut corners.

One company I worked with installed a new lone worker app but didn’t train their night staff properly. As a result, many employees didn’t use it. Once they provided proper training and clear guidance, usage jumped — and so did peace of mind.

Extra Tip: Keep Compliance and Costs in Mind

Many organizations worry about the cost of training and compliance. Investing in recognized qualifications like the NEBOSH IGC course in Pakistan is worthwhile. It helps teams build solid risk management skills, which saves money long-term by reducing workplace incidents.

If you’re curious about safety training costs, explore NEBOSH course fees in Pakistan to see what works for your budget and your company’s size.

Final Thoughts

Keeping lone workers safe isn’t just a legal box to tick — it’s about showing your people that you value their well-being. By following these practical steps to create a safe system of work, you reduce risks and build a workplace where employees can focus on their tasks with confidence.

Take the time to develop, train, monitor, and improve your system. Your workers will thank you — and your business will benefit from fewer accidents, stronger morale, and a reputation for doing safety right.