Guideline for Working Alone or in Isolation

These Guidelines should be read in conjunction with the Working Alone or in Isolation Policy, the Fieldwork Policy and associated Procedure, and the Occupational Safety and Health Regulations WA 1996.

Definitions

‘Reasonably practicable’:      means all reasonable measures must be taken, bearing in mind:

·        The severity of the hazard

·        The likelihood of the hazard occurring

·        How much is known about the hazard and how to eliminate or control it

·        The availability, suitability and cost of safeguards

(The cost has to do with the expense and inconvenience necessary to put the safeguards in place measured against the consequences of failing to do so.  It is not a measure of whether the employer can afford to put the necessary safe guards in place.)

‘Remote’:         means a place separated by time or distance from essential emergency and required services such that the location presents a significant increase in risk

‘Working alone or in Isolation’ means: A person is alone at work when they are on their own; when they cannot be seen or heard by another person; and when they cannot expect a visit from another worker or member of the public for some time.  This can include, but not limited to, working: 

(i)                  in an office or laboratory outside of normal business hours or when everyone else has gone home;

(ii)                on a fence in field or paddock;

(iii)               in situations where they are called out at night;

(iv)              in bush land or other obviously remote locations.