Lone Worker Training: Why It's Not Optional, It's Critical

Across the UK, more than eight million people work in roles that may leave them isolated, unsupervised, or out of immediate contact with colleagues.

These lone workers range from social care staff and delivery drivers to estate agents and field engineers. While their roles are essential, they often carry elevated risks — risks that can be mitigated through proper training.

Despite clear guidance from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), real-life tragedies continue to highlight the dangers of working alone without the proper preparation or protection in place.

What Is Lone Working, and Why Does Training Matter?

Lone working is defined by the HSE as any work activity “carried out in isolation from other workers without close or direct supervision.” This includes people:

• Working alone on-site or off-site

• Working in homes or public spaces

• Travelling as part of their job

• Working outside normal hours

Without the ability to raise the alarm quickly or receive immediate support, lone workers are at increased risk of accidents, violence, medical emergencies, and stress-related issues.

Training helps workers:

• Recognise risks

• Use safe systems of work

• Respond effectively to emergencies

• Feel confident and supported in their roles

It also ensures organisations meet their legal duty of care under the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974.

Real UK Case Studies: When Systems Fail

Suzy Lamplugh – Estate Agent (London, 1986)

Perhaps the most infamous lone worker case in UK history.Suzy Lamplugh, a 25-year-old estate agent, disappeared in 1986 after going to meet a client for a property viewing alone.

Despite police efforts, her body was never found. The incident exposed the serious vulnerabilities lone workers face and led to the formation of the Suzy Lamplugh Trust, which has since campaigned for personal safety awareness and lone worker protections.

Lessons learned:

• Always ensure check-in/out procedures for appointments

• Don’t attend meetings with unknown clients alone

• Establish clear escalation plans

Marta Elena Vento – Hotel Receptionist (2020)

Marta Elena Vento, 27, was punched, kicked and attacked with hair clippers for 42 minutes, while working alone in the lobby of the Travelodge in Christchurch Road, Bournemouth, on 9 December 2020.

Lessons learned:

• Hotel employees were poorly trained

• Regular welfare checks and communication protocols matter

• Working long shifts in isolation needs proper support

What Does the Law Say?

The HSE’s official lone working guidance is clear:

“It will often be safe to work alone. However, the law requires you to think about and deal with any health and safety risks before people are allowed to do so.”

This includes:

• Carrying out and reviewing risk assessments

• Implementing control measures

• Providing training, supervision, and support

What Should Lone Worker Training Include?

Effective lone worker training should cover:

• The legal framework and employer duties

• Dynamic risk assessment and decision-making in the field

• Use of lone worker devices, alarms, and apps

• Conflict de-escalation and personal safety techniques

• Emergency response actions

• Mental health and isolation awareness

Training must also be ongoing, not just a one-off induction.

Risks change, so must preparation.

Final Thought: From Compliance to Care

Lone worker safety is not just about avoiding liability, it’s about valuing your people.

The tragedies of Suzy Lamplugh, Marta Elena Vento, and others are not just cautionary tales. They are reminders that training, communication, and proactive planning save lives.

At James Consulting, we’ve designed a comprehensive Lone Worker Safety Training Course that bridges legal compliance with real-world application.

Delivered by experienced instructors and tailored to sector-specific risks, the course equips your lone workers to stay safe, alert, and confident.

Don't wait for an incident to reveal the gaps in your safety system. Invest in training, and send a clear message:

You protect those who work alone, but never unsupported.

Further Reading & Resources

• HSE Lone Working Guidance