Working alone has become established as a common practice in various sectors, but that does not mean it is free of risks that require priority attention. Companies such as Quirón Prevención urge the implementation of efficient safety and communication protocols to mitigate the associated hazards. In tasks where the physical presence of accompanying personnel is unfeasible, such as monitoring distant infrastructures or maintenance in remote areas, workers are exposed to significant challenges for their safety and well-being.
According to the National Institute for Safety and Health at Work, working alone is characterized by the lack of company and the limited access to communications without special devices. Although there is no specific regulation in Spain for this modality, the Occupational Risk Prevention Law is applied together with the guidelines of Prevention Technical Note 344 (NTP 344). These regulations aim to minimize the risks inherent in performing tasks alone.
Organizations in sectors where isolation is inevitable must safeguard the safety of their employees by implementing specific measures. The presence of a preventive resource in high-risk tasks is crucial, as well as establishing clear procedures for communications and rapid alerts in situations involving dangerous machinery or chemical substances.
Quirón Prevención emphasizes the need to create specific communication protocols that allow workers to request assistance in emergencies. Devices such as phones and radiotelephones are essential to keep communication channels open. Additionally, verticality and motion sensors are recommended to alert about immobilization or loss of consciousness.
In private security, where, in addition to isolation, there are external threats such as robberies or assaults, a solid support system is vital. Visits by supervisors and periodic coordination calls are effective strategies to mitigate both physical risks and the psychological impact of working alone.
Emerging technologies play a crucial role in improving occupational safety in isolated environments. Advanced applications and communication networks facilitate real-time remote support, reducing the sense of loneliness and increasing work efficiency. The implementation of these tools, complemented by ongoing training in safety protocols and stress management, is essential to face the unique challenges of working alone and protect the employees' integrity.
