In block and property management, lone working is often unavoidable. Whether attending emergency call outs, inspecting communal areas, or liaising with contractors, property professionals frequently work alone and out of sight. While many accept this as part of the job, it’s vital to recognise the unique risks lone workers face and the health and safety responsibilities employers must uphold.
The Real Risks of Working Alone
Lone workers in the property sector encounter a range of hazards that can escalate quickly without support:
- Physical injuries: A slip on a stairwell or a fall from height during a roof inspection can be serious and with no one else around, help may not come quickly.
- Aggression or abuse: Property managers can face verbal and physical threats from residents or third parties, especially when delivering unpopular messages or enforcing lease obligations.
- Medical emergencies: An asthma attack, diabetic episode, or sudden illness can be life-threatening without rapid intervention.
- Emotional well-being: Repeated lone working, particularly in high-stress situations, can lead to burnout, anxiety, or feelings of isolation.
Employer Responsibilities Under UK Law
Under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 and the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999, employers are legally obliged to safeguard lone workers. This includes:
- Carrying out detailed risk assessments for all lone working scenarios.
- Implementing control measures to reduce foreseeable risks.
- Providing training and support, ensuring staff are confident and prepared.
- Establishing clear emergency procedures and communication systems.
Crucially, employers must protect both the physical and mental wellbeing of lone workers as safety goes beyond first aid kits and hazard signs.
Technology That Can Save Lives
One vital tool in improving lone worker safety is the Hollie Guard Extra personal safety app. Originally developed in memory of Hollie Gazzard, a young woman who tragically lost her life to domestic abuse, this app has become a trusted ally for lone workers across the UK.
If a lone worker feels unsafe or finds themselves in danger, whether due to a fall, a medical emergency, or aggressive behaviour, activating Hollie Guard Extra will send an alert to a police-approved 24/7 monitoring centre, which responds within 10 seconds. The centre receives live audio and video footage from the worker’s phone, providing critical evidence of what’s happening in real time.
This technology can be the difference between a close call and a tragedy, offering peace of mind not just to employees, but to employers too.
Creating a Safer Culture
Beyond technology, managing agents must adopt a holistic approach:
- Implement lone worker policies and review them regularly.
- Provide de-escalation and safety training.
- Encourage reporting of concerns without fear of blame.
- Promote mental wellbeing and provide support networks.
Lone working is part of modern property management, but the risks should never be underestimated. By understanding our legal and moral responsibilities and embracing tools like Hollie Guard Extra we can create safer working environments where no one ever feels truly alone.
