Working Alone Picture This

What do you see in this picture that could be dangerous if you were working in this space, particularly if you were alone?

There are several unsafe conditions in this image that could be harmful to any worker, but especially a lone worker. Use the Picture This to spark discussion about the hazards of working alone and the precautions and procedures your organization has in place to protect lone workers. Here are a few observations to get the discussion started.

1. The “fog” of an unknown origin settling in over the area. Is it smoke from a fire? Exhaust from a vehicle? Vapor from an accidental chemical reaction of two spilled materials?
2. If you were alone in here and the “fog” started to appear what would you do? Continue to work? Try and find the source? Open a window?
3. What in your work area could create a hazardous atmosphere? Think about chemicals, working in a confined space, potential sources of exhaust, working from heights, etc.
4. The propane-powered forklift could also cause a hazardous atmosphere – one that’s not visible like the “fog”. If you were working alone operating the lift or repairing the lift while it was running (not the best idea in most circumstances) there’s a chance you could be overcome by carbon monoxide before you realized what was happening.