Would you be unhappy at this?

[MaxandFred]

I work for a large company that has multiple locations. Im based at an office once a week but generally work remotely.

Whilst working late and travelling from one location to the next I was in an accident.

No one at the site I was visiting has queried why I failed to show although they were expecting me.

I was unable to contact anyone immediately so left messages for my line manager as unable to work. Took a couple of days before any contact was made.

Previous communication in relation to any lone working policy has resulted in ‘its being updated’ or suggestions to arrange a buddy system but we all work different hours.

I somehow feel that they have failed in their duty of care to an employee. I live alone and if I had been seriously injured it could have been a couple of days before my absence was noted.

Would you be unhappy with this or am I being precious?

Absolutely not, we have to attempt contact anyone that does not turn up with within 4hrs if no contact is received by the worker by 10am and we start at 8.

Is this a large establishment because in this day and age, there is no reason and I think comes under legislation for lone worker procedures So the whole "policy is being reviewed" is a red herring.

There’s recently been a legal case where a company got fined £1M for their piss poor lone working ‘procedure’ (or lack thereof) that ended up with a worker losing their life. I’m surprised that your company hasn’t ensured their lone working policy is iron clad. Definitely pursue this further with them, they have a duty of care to their employees and they have failed miserably in your case. They really should be falling over themselves to sort their policy, not fobbing you off with vague assurances.

It’s a huge company. I’m glad you both agree I am not overacting. I wish to avoid being difficult however they are not covering themselves in glory.

There has been no mention of recording anything in an accident book. I thought this would be necessary as technically I was at work albeit working outside of core hours and travelling across locations.