What are the risks?

Exposure to violence and poor access to emergency assistance are the two main hazards of working alone. However, these hazards can also be faced by people who work with colleagues.

Because there are no hazards which are exclusive to working alone, the hazards and risks of the particular job need to be dealt with first. However, working alone does increase the risks of any given job.

Working alone can increase the likelihood of the hazard or risk. For example, an attendant working alone late at night in a 24-hour convenience store may be a greater target for exposure to violence.

Working alone can also increase the severity of workplace injuries. A park ranger who is bitten by a snake has an increased chance of severe consequences if they are working alone rather than with colleagues who can help.