Working Alone

Protecting Workers When Help Isn’t Close at Hand

Some jobs in tourism and hospitality involve working alone or in isolation, where a worker may be out of sight, out of earshot, or otherwise unable to call for help in an emergency. When that’s the case, employers have a legal responsibility to assess the risks and put procedures in place to keep workers safe.

Working alone doesn’t just increase the risk of physical injury, it can also affect psychological well-being, especially in high-pressure or late-night roles. A strong working alone procedure shows workers that their safety matters, even when they’re out of view.

What the Law Requires

The OHS Regulation outlines employer responsibilities when a worker is assigned to work alone or in isolation. To meet these requirements and keep workers safe, employers must take the following steps:

• Identify hazards related to the work, the location, and the timing of the shift
• Eliminate or control those hazards where possible
• Develop and implement a procedure to check on the worker’s well-being
• Determine the frequency and method of checks based on the level of risk
• Train workers and supervisors on how to follow the working alone procedures

If a worker is working alone between 11 pm and 6 am in a retail setting open to the public, such as a gas station, liquor store, or fast-food outlet, employers must take extra steps to reduce the risk of violence. This includes having a written procedure and providing training on how to handle money safely. In addition, employers must implement at least one of the following: a physical barrier between the worker and the public, assign a second worker to the shift, or put a violence prevention program in place.

Common Roles That May Work Alone

Many roles in the tourism and hospitality industry involve working alone at times, depending on scheduling, site layout, or operating hours. Common examples include:

• Cleaning and housekeeping staff
• Maintenance workers and custodians
• Overnight snow groomers & snow removal
• Night reception or front desk clerks
• Taxi or shuttle drivers
• Security guards or loss prevention personnel
• Workers in walk-in coolers or remote buildings

Supporting Workers Beyond

Going beyond the minimum helps workers feel safer, more supported, and more connected, especially during isolated or late-night shifts. Working alone can increase stress, anxiety, or a sense of vulnerability, particularly if workers don’t feel seen or heard. A stronger approach helps protect both physical and psychological well-being. Consider enhancing your working alone procedures by:

• Using two-way communication devices like radios or check-in apps for ease, reliability, and peace of mind
• Assigning supervisors or coworkers to proactively check in, rather than waiting passively for schedule contacts
• Establishing a clear escalation protocol if a worker fails to respond, so no one feels forgotton
• Talking with workers regularly about how they feel during solo shifts: do they feel safe, supported and confident?
• Encouraging open feedback about whether procedures are working or need improvement

When working alone can’t be avoided, combining strong systems with human connection helps reduce risk, ease mental strain, and show workers they’re not truly on their own.

More Information and Resources

Customizable Templates

• Working Alone Procedure and Check-in Log Template (go2HR) – coming soon!
• Safe Work Practices: Working Alone at the Front Desk (go2HR)
• Safety Talk for Heli & Snowcat Skiing Operators: Working Alone or in Isolation (go2HR)

Additional Information

• Working Alone: A Handbook for Small Business (WorkSafeBC)
• Working Alone (WorkSafeBC)
• Working Alone (CCOHS)
• Working Alone – Handling Money (CCOHS)
• Violence Prevention (go2HR)
• Violence (WorkSafeBC)
• OHS Regulation, Section 4.20-23, Working Alone or In Isolation (WorkSafeBC)

Need Help?

We’re here to support you at any stage of the process. Contact us for guidance, templates, or one-on-one support tailored to your business.