Procedure No: 7.08-01
CRUX OF THE PROCEDURE:
The crux of HSE&S Procedure titled “Lone and Isolated Workers” is to establish a systematic approach to managing the risks faced by employees who work alone or in isolated conditions at Lotte Chemical Pakistan Limited (LCPL). Here are the key points:
- Purpose
- To define a system for controlling risks to employees working alone or in isolated conditions.
- Scope
- Applies to all lone or isolated workers at the LCPL site, associated work areas, and the City Office.
- Definitions
- Lone Worker: Works alone without contact for over two hours.
- Isolated Worker: Works in remote or detached areas.
- Site: Includes LCPL Site, Raw Water Pumping Station, and adjacent 50-acre plot.
- Requirements
- Risk Assessment: Managers must assess hazards, define safe work systems, and specify communication requirements.
- Medical Condition: Workers must be medically fit for lone/isolated work; managers must verify this.
- Supervision: Managers decide supervision frequency based on risk and worker proficiency.
- Emergency Situations: Establish emergency procedures, ensure access to first aid/fire-fighting facilities, and maintain communication systems.
- Contact with lone/isolated workers must occur at least every 2 hours.
- If contact is lost, a search must be initiated.
- Communication & Training
- Managers must ensure all lone/isolated workers are trained on this procedure.
- Contractors must also adhere to these principles.
- Documentation
- No specific documentation requirements are mentioned.
- Amendments
- This is the fourth revision of the procedure, updated as of September 2020.
Key Focus Areas
- Risk Control: Hazard assessment, safe work systems, and communication protocols.
- Worker Safety: Medical fitness, supervision, and emergency preparedness.
- Training: Ensuring all workers and managers are aware of and comply with the procedure.
This procedure ensures the safety and well-being of lone and isolated workers by addressing potential risks and establishing clear guidelines for communication, supervision, and emergency response.
QUESTIONS & ANSWERS
Q1. What is the purpose of this procedure?
The purpose is to define a system for controlling risks to employees who work alone or in isolated conditions, ensuring their safety and well-being.
Q2.Who does this procedure apply to?
It applies to all lone or isolated workers at the LCPL site, associated work areas (e.g., Raw Water Pumping Station, 50-acre plot), and the City Office.
Q3. What is the difference between a lone worker and an isolated worker?
- A lone workeris someone who works alone without contact with others for over two hours.
- An isolated workeris someone required to work in remote or detached areas.
Q4. What must managers do before permitting lone or isolated work?
Managers must:
- Conduct a risk assessment for the task.
- Define a safe system of work.
- Specify the frequency and means of communication.
- Ensure workers receive validated training, including emergency response.
Q5. What are the key elements of a risk assessment for lone/isolated workers?
The risk assessment must address:
- Legal requirements related to the task.
- Hazards in the workplace, task, and equipment/substances used.
- Job methods, including manual handling and limitations.
- Access and egress to the workplace.
- Means of contact.
- When to stop work and seek advice.
- Awareness of stakeholders in the area.
Q6. What medical conditions must be considered for lone/isolated workers?
Workers must have no medical conditions that make them unsuitable for the task. Managers must:
- Seek medical advice if necessary.
- Ensure workers inform them of any relevant medical conditions.
- Refer workers to an Occupational Health Physician if needed.
Q7. How often must lone/isolated workers be contacted?
Contact must be initiated or received at least every 2 hours. If contact is not made, a search must be initiated.
Q8. What emergency procedures must be in place for lone/isolated workers?
Managers must:
- Establish emergency procedures for all foreseeable situations.
- Ensure workers are trained to implement these procedures.
- Provide access to first aid and fire-fighting facilities.
- Maintain communication systems between workers and a continuously manned point.
Q9. What training is required for lone/isolated workers?
Workers must receive full training on:
- The hazards and risks associated with their tasks.
- Safe work systems and emergency procedures.
- Communication protocols and when to seek advice.
Q10. What is the responsibility of managers regarding contractors working in lone/isolated conditions?
Managers must ensure contractors adhere to the principles of this procedure, including risk assessments, communication protocols, and emergency preparedness.