Wisconsin Lone Worker

Our Guide To Lone Worker Safety Policy And Legislation In Wisconsin

Because Wisconsin falls under federal OSHA jurisdiction, all workplace safety requirements—including those that impact lone workers—are governed by federal regulations. OSHA's General Duty Clause mandates that employers must provide a workplace free from recognized hazards, which extends to working conditions involving employee isolation.

Although OSHA does not have a regulation that explicitly defines or governs "lone work," employers are expected to manage hazards associated with remote or unsupervised tasks. This includes ensuring adequate communication, emergency preparedness, and hazard-specific controls for workers performing duties alone.

At the state level, agencies like DWD and DSPS enforce worker protections, licensing, and professional standards that may intersect with certain lone worker occupations, particularly in healthcare and construction.

How Wisconsin Defines A Lone Worker

There is no formal legal definition of “lone worker” in Wisconsin labor laws or OSHA standards. However, the term is commonly used to describe workers who operate without immediate supervision or coworkers present.

In Wisconsin, lone workers are frequently found in roles such as:

• Agricultural fieldwork and equipment operation
• Home healthcare services
• Utility or telecom repairs in rural areas
• Janitorial and security staff working late or overnight shifts
• Delivery drivers and field sales agents
• Maintenance personnel in manufacturing or municipal settings

Because these individuals may be unable to summon help quickly in an emergency, it is vital that employers assess and mitigate risks specific to their roles and locations.

Employing A Lone Worker In Wisconsin

Employers with lone workers in Wisconsin are encouraged to adopt a risk-based approach to workplace safety. While no standalone regulation targets lone working, federal OSHA still expects that job-specific hazards—including those tied to isolation—are properly managed.

Best practices include:

• Risk Assessments: Identify potential dangers associated with working alone, such as falls, medical emergencies, or environmental exposure
• Communication Systems: Equip employees with mobile phones, radios, or lone worker safety devices
• Scheduled Check-Ins: Implement routine check-ins manually or through automated systems to confirm safety
• Training: Provide employees with the skills and knowledge to handle emergencies when help is not immediately available
• Written Procedures: Develop emergency protocols and response plans specifically for lone work environments

These steps contribute to a safer workplace and help ensure compliance with federal OSHA expectations.

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

The Safe Lone Worker app gives Wisconsin employers a practical solution for managing lone worker safety. Features such as real-time GPS tracking, emergency alerts, fall detection, and automatic check-ins allow supervisors to maintain awareness and respond quickly to any incidents.

Whether your team works in the field, in clients’ homes, or in isolated industrial areas, this technology strengthens your safety posture and demonstrates your commitment to protecting employees under OSHA regulations.

Wisconsin Lone Worker Policies

Since Wisconsin does not administer its own OSHA-approved State Plan, all occupational safety laws for private employers are enforced by federal OSHA. While OSHA does not provide a specific standard for lone workers, employers are still obligated to address the hazards of working alone under the General Duty Clause.

For the most accurate guidance, employers should consult OSHA’s official website and explore its resources for hazard identification, training, and safety planning. This article is for general informational purposes and does not replace legal or regulatory consultation.