Do I need to complete a risk assessment before allowing my staff to work alone in New Zealand?
Yes. The HSWA 2015 requires employers to manage risks systematically, beginning with identifying hazards[cite: 597]. WorkSafe NZ expects a documented assessment for isolation [cite: 598].
Why Risk Assessment Comes First
Employers must formally consider how isolation amplifies risk, such as delayed emergency response[cite: 601]. Without documentation, you cannot prove controls were based on actual risk [cite: 603].
What the Assessment Needs to Address
- Specific tasks and environments [cite: 605]
- Physical, environmental, and people-based hazards [cite: 606]
- How isolation amplifies risk levels [cite: 607]
- Selected monitoring and communication controls [cite: 608]
- Review conditions [cite: 609]
Guardian Angel Safety provides templates aligned with WorkSafe NZ guidance[cite: 611].