Lone Working in Schools and Learning Environments Toolbox Talk

This lone working toolbox talk template is designed for education sector site staff, caretakers and premises personnel who may work alone on school grounds.

It highlights the key hazards of working without direct supervision – assaults, slips, medical emergencies and equipment failure – and explains the legal duties under the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999.

• Use this toolbox talk for: daily patrols, maintenance tasks, after‑hours security checks.
• Use this toolbox talk for: cleaning or caretaking duties performed by a single employee.
• Use this toolbox talk for: any situation where staff are isolated from immediate help.

Each section includes a clear purpose, what the activity involves, why the risks matter, 10 practical do‑items and 10 don’t‑items, plus an important summary of key actions.

The content is fully editable and shareable, allowing you to adapt it to your school’s specific procedures.

Compliant with the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 and aligned with HSE guidance on lone working. Read the full HSE guidance here.

Using this toolbox talk ensures compliance and promotes a culture of safety.

Implementing this talk helps organisations reduce incident rates, improve staff confidence, and meet legal obligations, creating a safer learning environment for students and visitors.