Working Alone or In Isolation

Employees who work alone or in isolation are more vulnerable than those who have co-workers present. The employer must provide a workplace that is as safe as possible for workers. If you have staff who are assigned to work alone or in isolation, you must do the following and review annually for effectiveness.

• Identify hazards and assess risks to staff who work alone or in isolation.
• Eliminate or minimize the hazards when possible.
• Develop and implement a written procedure for checking on the well-being of employees.
• Provide staff training for the working alone check-in procedure.

The employer is responsible for identifying staff who are:

• Working alone or in isolation.
• In a position where they might not be able to secure assistance in the event of illness, injury, or other misfortune.

This template can be used to assess the risk of staff working alone in your practice.

If clinic staff may work alone or in isolation, the employer must establish a policy and procedures for this.

Employers must develop and implement a procedure for monitoring the well-being of employees working alone or in isolation. Regular check-ins help employees feel safer and more valued, reducing the anxiety and stress of working alone. It’s important to provide staff with clear check-in and check-out procedures.

Review the patient’s chart before their appointment. Take note of any potential concerns and use precautionary measures if necessary. For example, have another person in the room or leave the door ajar slightly.

• Do not see a patient when you are alone or in isolation if you feel uncomfortable. Reschedule the appointment for when other staff are around. Consider if the appointment can be virtual.
• Use the check-in and check-out procedure if working alone.
• Approach a patient in a non-threatening and respectful manner.
• Clearly and fully explain what you are going to do before and during the treatment or procedure.