Lone Working Policy Template (UK)

Establish a clear, legally robust framework for managing lone working arrangements with our professionally drafted Lone Working Policy Template (UK). This template is designed to help employers identify, assess, and control the risks associated with employees working alone, whether on-site, off-site, remotely, or outside normal working hours.

This UK lone working policy template provides a structured approach to risk assessment, communication, supervision, and emergency procedures, ensuring that lone workers are adequately protected while enabling organisations to meet their statutory health and safety obligations. It is suitable for a wide range of sectors, including professional services, healthcare, construction, retail, logistics, and remote or hybrid working environments.

Drafted in solicitor-style language, the policy aligns with key UK health and safety legislation, including the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 and the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999. It supports consistent internal practices, reduces regulatory risk, and demonstrates that the employer has taken reasonable steps to safeguard lone workers.

Why Use This Lone Working Policy Template?

Robust Risk Management
Provides a clear framework for identifying lone working risks and implementing proportionate control measures.

Legally Informed Drafting
Reflects UK statutory duties relating to employee health, safety, and welfare in lone working situations.

Practical & Adaptable
Easily customised to reflect different roles, locations, working patterns, and operational risks.

Compliance & Audit Ready
Supports internal audits, regulatory inspections, and health and safety reviews.

Professional Standard
Written in clear, authoritative language suitable for HR teams, managers, and legal advisers.

Who Should Use This Template?

• Employers with staff working alone or remotely

• HR managers and health and safety officers

• Line managers responsible for off-site or isolated workers

• Legal advisers reviewing workplace health and safety policies

• Organisations operating flexible, hybrid, or field-based working models

Key Features Included

• Definition of lone working and scope of application

• Employer and employee responsibilities

• Lone working risk assessment framework

• Communication, supervision, and monitoring arrangements

• Incident reporting and emergency procedures

• Training and competence requirements

• Guidance on review, monitoring, and record-keeping

Step-by-Step Instructions for Use

1. Identify roles and situations where lone working occurs within the organisation.

2. Carry out suitable and sufficient risk assessments for lone working activities.

3. Implement control measures, including communication and escalation procedures.

4. Ensure lone workers receive appropriate training and guidance.

5. Communicate the policy clearly to all affected employees.

6. Review and update the policy regularly or following incidents or operational changes.

FAQs

Q: What is a lone working policy?
A lone working policy sets out how an organisation manages the health and safety risks associated with employees working without close or direct supervision. It explains responsibilities, risk controls, and procedures designed to protect lone workers in different working environments.

Q: Is a lone working policy a legal requirement in the UK?
While there is no single law requiring a standalone policy, employers have a legal duty under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 to protect employees’ health and safety. A lone working policy helps demonstrate compliance with these duties.

Q: Who is considered a lone worker?
A lone worker is any employee who works by themselves without close or direct supervision. This can include remote workers, home workers, night workers, field-based staff, and employees working in isolated areas.

Q: How does this policy help reduce legal risk?
By documenting risk assessments, control measures, and emergency procedures, the policy shows that the employer has taken reasonable and proportionate steps to manage lone working risks, reducing exposure to regulatory action or claims.

Q: How often should the lone working policy be reviewed?
The policy should be reviewed regularly and updated where working arrangements change, new risks are identified, or following incidents involving lone workers. This version is current for 2026.

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