Community-based mental health workers play a critical role in providing support and care to individuals and families struggling with mental health issues. These professionals often work independently, visiting clients in their homes or various community settings. While this autonomy offers flexibility and the opportunity to build closer relationships with clients, it also presents unique safety and security challenges.
Lone worker safety is a crucial concern for employers, as these individuals face unique risks and demand specific measures to ensure their security and well-being. It's essential for employers to comply with their legal obligations, fulfilling their duty of care by taking reasonable precautions to safeguard lone workers from harm.
To accomplish this, organizations must be well-versed in the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations, which establish and enforce safety standards to promote workplace safety and prevent injuries, illnesses, and fatalities in the United States. This article will examine key OSHA regulations relevant to lone worker safety, the significance of duty of care, and offer practical tips on safeguarding lone workers in the workplace.
Violence is a risk in any workplace. Acts of violence can cause harm to workers, affect a company’s reputation, and impact expenses and profits. Implementing a comprehensive workplace violence prevention program is essential to mitigate the risks unexpected violence can create.
Workplace violence is an issue that businesses cannot ignore. It’s a growing problem in our society and not taking a proactive approach can expose an organization to liability and reputation issues. According to the National Safety Council, assault is now the 5th leading cause of death in the workplace.
By Brye Sargent, CSP
Over the last several years, there’s been a shift in the workplace. As companies are evolving to better serve their customers, the number of employees who work by themselves is on the rise. The lone worker has increasingly become a common method for meeting the needs of clients and increasing company sales.