Introduction

A1 Home Inspectors is committed to ensuring the health, safety, and wellbeing of all persons carrying out work on behalf of the partnership.

As Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) assessors may work alone when attending domestic or commercial properties, we recognise the importance of managing the risks associated with lone working.

This policy sets out the arrangements in place to help ensure the safety of lone workers.

1. Definition of Lone Working

A lone worker is any person carrying out work activities without direct supervision or immediate support from another colleague.

For A1 Home Inspectors, this generally includes assessors attending occupied or unoccupied properties alone to undertake EPC assessments.

2. Responsibilities

The partners, Gary Langale and Richard Buckner, are jointly responsible for:

• Promoting safe lone working practices.

• Reviewing potential risks associated with appointments.

• Maintaining appropriate communication arrangements.

• Reviewing any incidents or concerns.

Individuals carrying out lone working activities are responsible for:

• Following this policy and safe working practices.

• Taking reasonable care of their own health and safety.

• Reporting concerns, incidents, or unsafe situations.

3. Lone Working Arrangements

Before attending appointments, lone workers should:

• Ensure appointment details are recorded, including address, customer details, and expected appointment times.

• Be familiar with the location and access arrangements.

• Ensure mobile phones are charged and available.

During appointments, lone workers should:

• Maintain professional boundaries at all times.

• Be aware of surroundings and any potential risks.

• Leave the property immediately if they feel unsafe, threatened, or uncomfortable.

• Avoid entering unsafe areas or carrying out activities that present unreasonable risk.

Where appropriate, appointment details and expected return times should be known to another partner or responsible person.

4. High-Risk Situations

Lone workers must not place themselves at unnecessary risk.

Assessments may be rearranged, postponed, or terminated where:

• Aggressive or threatening behaviour is experienced.

• Unsafe property conditions are identified.

• Illegal activity is suspected.

• Access arrangements are unsafe.

• The assessor feels vulnerable or unsafe for any reason.

Personal safety takes priority over completing an appointment.

5. Communication and Emergency Procedures

Lone workers should:

• Keep a charged mobile phone available.

• Inform another person of appointment schedules where practical.

• Contact emergency services where immediate danger exists.

• Report any safety concerns or incidents as soon as reasonably possible.

6. Incident Reporting

Any accidents, threatening behaviour, near misses, or safety concerns encountered during lone working must be recorded and reviewed so that appropriate measures can be taken.

7. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed periodically to ensure it remains appropriate to the size and nature of the business.

8. Contact Us

For any questions regarding this policy, please contact using the details below.