This Lone Worker Check-In & Duress Response SOP (Safe Operating Procedure) sets out the check-in, communication and duress arrangements for employees working alone, such as after-hours work, property inspections, security patrols and solo client or site visits. It covers testing duress devices and coverage, agreed check-in times, missed check-in escalation, leaving unsafe situations, and checking out at the end. It's written by WHS specialists, aligned to Australian WHS legislation, and fully editable in Microsoft Word.
Who it's for
Security and mobile patrol companies
Property managers and real estate agents
Community, disability and home care services
Maintenance and field service technicians
Cleaners and after-hours workers
Use it to
Train and induct workers in exactly how you expect the task to be done
Keep a clear reference at the machine, in the vehicle or on site
Record competency with the built-in sign-off
Show clients, insurers and auditors your safe work methods are written down
What this SOP covers
Violence, aggression or threats from the public or clients
Medical emergency, injury or illness with no one to help
Delays in getting help in an emergency
Slips, trips and falls with no colleague present
Vehicle incidents travelling between lone work locations
Loss of communication from poor coverage or a flat battery
Heat, cold and sun when working outdoors alone
Increased vulnerability at night or in low light
Psychological strain from isolation or distressing situations
Being locked in or out, or unauthorised entry to the site
What's included
7 pre-operational checks, from agreeing the check-in schedule and testing the duress alarm to coverage, vehicle checks and known site hazards
A 9-step operating procedure covering carrying the duress device, scheduled check-ins, missed check-in escalation and leaving unsafe situations
Controls for duress device batteries, vehicle security and securing building entry and exit points
5 shutdown, check-out and post-operation steps
Emergency actions for incidents, medical emergencies, threats and missed check-ins
PPE checklist and a list of related documents
Competency acknowledgement and worker sign-off
Space for your logo, SOP number, version and review dates
Why use this template
Saves hours compared with writing an SOP from a blank page
Written as clear, numbered steps that workers can follow on the job
Fully editable, so you can match it to your equipment, site and how your team works
The competency sign-off gives you a training record from day one
How it works
Buy online and download straight away. You'll also get an email with your link.
Add your logo, company name, SOP number and dates.
Check it suits your equipment and site, and edit anything you need to.
Train your workers and have them sign the competency acknowledgement.
Need more than one SOP?
This SOP is also included in the Ultimate Professional & Business Services SOP Bundle, Ultimate Property Maintenance SOP Bundle and Ultimate Security Services SOP Bundle. Each bundle is $197, which works out much cheaper than buying SOPs one at a time.
Common questions
What happens if a check-in is missed?
The supervisor or nominated contact tries to reach the worker straight away. If they can't within the agreed timeframe, they start the missed check-in escalation procedure, which may include calling emergency services.
Can lone work start if the duress device isn't working?
No. The device must be charged and confirmed working before lone work begins.
Does it cover the task being done alone?
No. The task or equipment-specific SOP still applies to the actual work, alongside this one.
Can I change it?
Yes. It's a Microsoft Word file, so you can add, remove or change any step, check or hazard, and add your own logo and details.
Does it suit my state?
Yes. It's written to the model WHS laws and suits all states and territories, including Victoria under the OHS Act and Regulations.
What if it doesn't suit my work?
You're covered by our 30-day money-back guarantee if it isn't fit for purpose.
