Minnesota Lone Worker

Our Guide To Lone Worker Safety Policy And Legislation In Minnesota

Because Minnesota runs a state OSHA plan, employers in the state must comply with regulations enforced by Minnesota OSHA (MNOSHA). Although MNOSHA does not have a regulation that specifically targets lone workers, employers are still required under the Minnesota Occupational Safety and Health Act to provide a safe and healthful workplace for all employees—including those working without direct supervision.

Minnesota OSHA applies both general and industry-specific safety rules that can be adapted to address the risks lone workers face, such as delayed emergency response, isolation-related hazards, and environmental threats in remote areas.

How Minnesota Defines A Lone Worker

Minnesota does not legally define “lone worker” in its state safety statutes. However, the term commonly refers to employees who carry out job tasks without direct supervision or coworkers nearby. These individuals may be unable to call for help or receive timely assistance in the event of an emergency.

Examples of lone workers in Minnesota include:

• Agricultural workers operating equipment alone in fields
• Forestry workers in remote areas of northern Minnesota
• Home healthcare providers visiting patients
• Custodians and cleaning staff working night shifts
• Utility workers and maintenance technicians in the field
• Security guards at unstaffed facilities

These roles require additional safety planning to ensure employees can respond to emergencies and communicate effectively while working alone.

Employing A Lone Worker In Minnesota

Employers in Minnesota must evaluate lone worker situations just as they would any other job-related hazard. Under MNOSHA, employers are responsible for conducting hazard assessments and developing policies and procedures that minimize risk.

Recommended best practices include:

• Conducting Job Hazard Analyses: Evaluate the specific risks of each lone work position or location.
• Implementing Communication Systems: Require regular check-ins via phone, app, or two-way radio, depending on the setting.
• Providing Emergency Response Tools: Equip workers with devices that allow them to send alerts, call for help, or trigger emergency services.
• Offering Safety Training: Train employees on emergency procedures, hazard recognition, and how to use monitoring tools.
• Documenting Policies: Develop and enforce written procedures for lone work, including when it is permitted and how workers should be supported.

Taking these steps helps ensure compliance with MNOSHA requirements and builds a culture of safety and accountability.

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How The Safe Lone Worker App Can Protect Minnesota Lone Workers And Employers

In a state like Minnesota—where workers often operate in rural, forested, or weather-prone environments—real-time visibility is crucial. The Safe Lone Worker app helps employers protect their workforce with features such as GPS tracking, timed check-ins, panic alerts, and fall detection.

Whether it’s a technician climbing a cell tower or a healthcare worker traveling between rural homes, the app ensures that help is always within reach. It also provides employers with documented proof of compliance and monitoring, which can be helpful during inspections or incident reviews.

Minnesota Lone Worker Policies

Minnesota does not operate a state-run occupational safety and health plan, so federal OSHA standards apply to all private-sector employers. Although there is no specific OSHA regulation dedicated to lone workers, employers are required by law to protect all employees from foreseeable hazards—including those faced when working alone.

For the most current legal requirements and safety resources, visit OSHA.gov and the Minnesota Workforce Commission. This article is intended for general information purposes and should not be considered a substitute for legal advice or official regulatory guidance.