Lone Workers statistics in North American

Understanding lone worker statistics in North America is crucial for ensuring workplace safety. Here's a summary of key insights gathered from recent data:

Key Findings:

• Significant Numbers:

  • It's estimated that over 25 million people work alone regularly in North America. This highlights the widespread nature of lone work across various industries.  

• Growing Trend:

  • The number of lone workers is increasing, driven by factors like post-pandemic staffing shortages and the shift towards remote or home-based work, particularly in sectors like healthcare.  

• Industry Risks:

  • Certain industries have higher risks for lone workers:

    • Agriculture, forestry, fishing, and hunting: These sectors have a high fatal injury rate due to hazardous machinery and remote work environments.  

    • Transportation and warehousing: Vehicle-related accidents are a major concern.

    • Construction: Falls and equipment hazards pose significant risks.  

• Safety Concerns:

  • Lone workers face various safety challenges, including:

    • Accidents and injuries.

    • Workplace violence.  

    • Environmental hazards.  

    • Lack of communication and support in emergencies.  

• Technology's Role:

  • Technology plays a vital role in enhancing lone worker safety.  

  • Connected safety solutions, such as monitoring devices and communication tools, are becoming increasingly important.  

  • Reliable connectivity is essential, but gaps in cellular coverage remain a challenge.  

• Importance of Policies:

  • It is very important for organizations to have formal policies and protocols in place for lone worker safety.

Where to Find More Information:

• Reports from organizations like Aware360 and Berg Insight provide valuable data and analysis on lone worker trends and safety solutions.  

• Surveys conducted by companies like SafetyLine and Ground Control offer insights into the experiences and challenges faced by lone workers.  

• Governmental labour statistics from sources like the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, and equivalent Canadian organizations, provide data on workplace injuries and fatalities.  

By understanding these statistics and trends, employers can take proactive steps to protect their lone workers and create safer work environments.