Remote or Isolated Work

This page provides an overview of the risk management approach for remote or isolated work undertaken as part of university business.

Some University activities occur in remote locations or require individuals to work in isolation. What is fundamental to safely managing these activities is the identification of hazards in the planning phase of the work organisation. Hazards must be eliminated or their risk minimised to prevent injury or illness. WHS Procedure – Working Alone or In Isolation outlines the steps to be taken and is supported by WHS 02 General Risk Assessment and WHS 47 Authorisation for Working Alone or in Isolation.

The workplace must provide a system of work that includes effective communication with the worker or workers in the event of an emergency or if medical assistance is required.

• Communication plans established
• Emergency contacts and arrangements understood
• Medical fitness assessment undertaken where any known medical conditions may impact on working in isolation or remotely
• Workers are competent to perform the task/s required
• Safe operating procedures are established and understood

Risk management

• Advice from the UniSA Health Medical Clinic on health, fitness and the necessary vaccinations
• Travel advice from the Director: International and Smartraveller DFAT warnings
• Communication and ground transportation plans
• ACE emergency overseas contacts and pre-arranged UniSA personnel contacts
• Planning travel/work schedules/itinerary and accommodation plans
• Appropriate selection of luggage and equipment that is manageable

For details and booking of travel arrangements contact the University Central Travel Team.

Please note: The following forms are updated frequently. Please access the forms from this page and do not store a local copy to avoid using outdated forms.

Procedures

• Working Alone or In Isolation
• Fieldwork Health and Safety
• Managing Workplace Health and Safety Risks
• Hazard / Incident Reporting and Investigation
• Induction and Training
• Critical Incident Management

Forms

• Authorisation for Working Alone or in Isolation (WHS 47)
• General Risk Assessment (WHS 02)
• Hazard Register (WHS 01)
• Induction Checklist (WHS 23)
• Training Needs Guide (WHS 13)

Training

• See the UniSA 'Risk Management for Workers' training option on UniSA's list of Risk Specific Training