What matters in field service
Working alone in the field is part of everyday life in many companies — especially in technical service. Anyone who maintains network infrastructure, fixes faults or checks systems often works alone and often under difficult conditions. This increases responsibility for companies: Risk assessment is becoming mandatory — and can be significantly simplified with digital solutions such as a field service app.
What is a risk assessment when working alone?
The risk assessment is required in accordance with Section 5 of the Occupational Health and Safety Act. It is used to systematically record workplace-specific risks and to derive appropriate protective measures. In the case of mobile solo work in the field, this means that risks must be assessed in advance and secured with specific measures.
Typical risks of working alone in the field
These hazards occur particularly frequently:
- Work in remote or unsecured areas
- Risk of falls when working on ladders, roofs or in shafts
- Contact with electricity or technical equipment
- Health incidents without direct assistance
- Poor accessibility or dead spots
Content of a risk assessment for working alone
A complete risk assessment for field service operations should include the following points:
- Job description: What specific tasks are carried out alone?
- Risk analysis: What risks arise from location, activity and equipment?
- Risk assessment: What is the probability and how severe would the consequences be?
- protective measures: Which organizational, technical or personal protective measures are necessary?
- Documentation & control: How is implementation documented and tested?
An important success factor is the active involvement of employees. The European Company Survey on New and Emerging Risks (ESENER) emphasizes: “Germany is very good at involving employees in risk assessment, both in planning and implementation,” explains Christa Sedlatschek, Director of the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work.
Nevertheless, the ESENER survey also shows that the number of regularly carried out risk assessments is still too low at 65 percent. Companies should therefore not only rely on digital tools, but also further promote regular implementation and employee participation.
