Exam Pass Notes

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A Simple 6-Step Memory Aid

• Know the task
• Check the setting
• Keep in touch
• Trust warning signs
• Leave and escalate early
• Report and review

Key Takeaways

• A lone worker is someone who works without close or direct supervision. In pharmacy this includes staff working alone in the premises, in isolated parts of the premises, or away from the pharmacy on journeys or deliveries.
• There is no general legal ban on lone working, but employers must assess the risks and put controls in place.
• Not every task, time, or worker is suitable for lone working. New starters, trainees, unfamiliar duties and higher-risk situations may need closer supervision or a second person.
• All grades of staff should be included in lone-working planning, not only pharmacists.
• Stress, poor contact and isolation can affect wellbeing. The HSE notes that lone working may harm mental health and leave workers feeling disconnected or unsupported.

Safer Lone Working in Practice

• Check the environment: doors, exits, lighting, alarms, consultation rooms, parking, mobile signal and known local risks all matter.
• Plan communication: agree check-in intervals, return checks and clear alarm routes.
• Set clear limits: staff must know which tasks they can do alone and when to stop, withdraw or seek advice.
• Use safer travel arrangements: consider location, timing, vehicle condition and what to do if an address or person feels unsafe.

Aggression, Emergencies, and Review

• Lone workers may be at greater risk of violence: lack of nearby support can make abuse or aggression more serious.
• Protect personal safety first: stock, cash or completing a task should not take priority over moving to safety.
• Emergency plans must be specific: missed check-ins, sudden illness, injury or failure to return should trigger a clear escalation process.
• Violence and aggression training must match the risk: this includes temporary and support staff who may be exposed.
• Report incidents and near misses: use reports to change the system, not to let problems continue unaddressed.
• Aftercare matters: debriefs should establish what happened and provide support; some incidents may require counselling or further follow-up.