Lone Working Policy Proposed 5.1.26

Proposal for Lone Working Policy
Executive summary of why proposed policy is beneficial
Lone Working Policy – Executive Summary
While solo working at the theatre is often part of creative life—whether rehearsing, setting props, or updating noticeboards—it carries unique risks that deserve thoughtful management. Until now, Davenham Players has offered informal guidance, but no formal policy. This proposal fills that gap with a clear, supportive framework that protects volunteers and strengthens committee oversight.
Why this policy matters:
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Legal Compliance: It aligns with UK law, including the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999, ensuring trustees meet their duty of care.
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Volunteer Safety: It empowers individuals to work safely and confidently, with simple steps for check-ins, risk avoidance, and emergency contact.
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Committee Oversight: It formalises the Committee’s role in assessing lone working risks and responding to incidents.
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Incident Prevention: It reduces the likelihood of accidents, injuries, or distress by encouraging safe behaviours and clear communication.
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Culture of Care: It reinforces Davenham Players’ values of safety, respect, and community—even when someone’s working quietly behind the scenes.
This policy isn’t about restricting creativity—it’s about making sure no one feels alone in a moment that matters. It’s a practical safeguard and a cultural statement: your safety is always part of the script.
Other considerations:
Lock box / key safe outside with spare key (hidden) for emergency access only.
Consider personal accident alarm
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SureSafeGO Personal Alarm | Choose Pendant or Watch – SureSafe £175.45 + £9pm includes watch
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Fully Mobile- Use it in the home, garden or even when out and about. Unaffected by the landline digital switchover.
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Automatic Fall Detection This alarm detects a fall and automatically calls for help without needing to press the SOS button
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GPS Tracking GPS tracking lets us know where you are when you need help. Get the help you need fast, wherever you are
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Talking AlarmTalk directly through the device, not a far away base unit, to get the help you need – fast!
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Friends & Family App Friends & family app for increased connection – 3 player family contacts
Lone Working Policy
Staying safe behind the scenes—whether you’re rehearsing, rigging, or just tidying up
At Davenham Players, we know that creativity doesn’t always keep office hours. Whether you’re setting props, sorting costumes, or quietly rehearsing your monologue to the ghost light, we want you to feel safe and supported—even when working alone.
This policy outlines how we manage lone working in line with UK law, and what steps volunteers should take to protect themselves and others.
Legal Framework
We comply with:
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Health and Safety at Work Act 1974
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Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999
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HSE guidance on lone working and risk assessment
As a volunteer-led organisation, our Committee has a duty to assess risks and take reasonable steps to ensure the safety of anyone working alone on our premises.
Before You Start
If you plan to work alone at the theatre (e.g. backstage, loft, cellar, bar area, or foyer), please:
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Tell someone — Let a fellow volunteer, trustee, or friend know:
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Where you’ll be
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What you’re doing
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When you expect to arrive and leave
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Use the Committee WhatsApp group or Theatre Lone working WhatsApp. Group.
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Agree a check-in time — Especially if you’ll be there for more than an hour or working in less visible areas.
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Keep your phone charged and on you — So you can call for help or check in if needed.
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Avoid high-risk tasks — Don’t climb ladders, move heavy items, or use power tools when alone.
While You’re There
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Stick to well-lit, safe areas — Avoid isolated or cluttered spaces.
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Lock doors behind you — If appropriate, to prevent unexpected visitors.
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Stay alert — If something doesn’t feel right, leave and report it.
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Know your exits — Be aware of fire routes and emergency procedures.
When You’re Done
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Check out — Let the same person know you’ve finished and left safely.
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Report anything unusual — Whether it’s a broken light, a strange noise, or a misplaced prop that’s suddenly moved on its own (we still blame the ghost light).
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Log any incidents or concerns — In the Event Log or by emailing the Committee.
Committee Responsibilities
The Committee will:
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Assess lone working risks as part of our general Health & Safety Policy
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Provide guidance and signage where needed
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Review any incidents and update procedures accordingly
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Ensure volunteers feel confident and supported when working alone
Why It Matters
Lone working isn’t forbidden—but it does need a little extra care. We want you to feel safe, respected, and never like you’re rehearsing in the dark alone. So please follow these steps, and if in doubt, bring a buddy or ask for help.
This policy was agreed at the committee meeting on the DD.MM.YYYY. It is to be reviewed annually to ensure that it is fit for purpose and current at the first Committee meeting following each Annual General Meeting of the club.
Signed Chairman … (DIGITAL SIGNATURE). Secretary (DIGITAL SIGNATURE). Name of chair Name of Secretary
Date … DD.MM.YYYY …………………. Date … DD.MM.YYYY …………………..