Lone working – Cleaner on operation premises - Cleaning tasks carried out by a lone worker on customer premises, typically outside normal business hours.
Persons exposed
Type of assessment
Hazards and control measures
Hazard
Violence or aggression from others
Lone worker policy in place; staff trained in conflict avoidance; communication and check-in system used; staff have access to mobile phones at all times.
Issue personal lone worker alarms; confirm customer contact arrangements; provide periodic supervisor checks.
Hazard
Slips, trips and falls
Safe access routes maintained; adequate lighting; suitable footwear provided; “Wet floor” signage used when cleaning.
Review lighting timers on customer sites; ensure clear walkways at all times.
Hazard
Manual handling injuries
Manual handling training provided; lighter loads encouraged; use of trolleys and correct lifting technique.
Review weight limits and storage of equipment; ensure defective trolleys are replaced.
Hazard
Chemical exposure (COSHH)
COSHH training completed; only approved cleaning products used; PPE provided (gloves, goggles if required); SDS sheets available.
Conduct refresher COSHH training annually; ensure all containers are clearly labelled.
Hazard
Injury or medical emergency while working alone
Lone working policy enforced; staff trained to contact emergency services directly if needed; emergency contact numbers stored in phone; STAFFCHECK system monitors attendance and clock-in/out. Staff to always work with mobile phone in their possession
If a cleaner does not “clock out” within 15 minutes of their expected finish time, STAFFCHECK automatically notifies the Contracts Manager, triggering a welfare check. This ensures swift response to potential incidents. They have their phone on them to contact emergency services if needs be.