American Samoa Lone Worker

Our Guide To Lone Worker Safety Policy And Legislation In American Samoa

Because American Samoa falls under federal OSHA jurisdiction, workplace safety requirements are governed by OSHA’s federal regulations. Employers in the territory are required to comply with federal safety standards, including those that indirectly cover lone working conditions under the General Duty Clause.

This clause mandates that employers provide a workplace free from recognized hazards. In the context of lone work, this means ensuring that employees who perform tasks alone are not exposed to unmanaged risks due to their isolation. This includes workers aboard vessels, in remote infrastructure jobs, or during off-hours facility maintenance.

Though there is no specific lone worker regulation, employers are expected to assess job-specific hazards and establish appropriate controls.

How American Samoa Defines A Lone Worker

There is no official legal definition of “lone worker” in American Samoa’s labor code or federal OSHA standards. However, the term is used to describe any employee who performs tasks without the presence of other staff or immediate supervision.

In American Samoa, lone workers may include:

• Port and dock workers performing maintenance in isolated areas
• Fishing industry personnel working alone on vessels or in processing plants
• Facility managers or security guards working night shifts
• Technicians performing remote infrastructure repairs
• Public service workers conducting site visits or inspections

Given the region’s insular geography and variable communication infrastructure, lone worker safety is an especially important concern.

Employing A Lone Worker In American Samoa

Employers in American Samoa are required to proactively manage all workplace hazards, including those related to working alone. Even though there is no OSHA standard that specifically outlines lone worker requirements, employers must implement reasonable safety measures when employees are exposed to risk due to their isolation.

Recommended best practices include:

• Job Hazard Analysis (JHA): Identify risks associated with the job, especially when performed solo
• Communication Protocols: Equip workers with phones, radios, or lone worker safety apps
• Check-In Systems: Use manual or automated check-ins to monitor employee safety status
• Emergency Procedures: Provide clear protocols for evacuation, rescue, and medical aid
• Training: Teach workers to recognize hazards and respond appropriately without delay

Taking these steps not only enhances safety but also strengthens compliance with OSHA’s expectations for a hazard-free workplace.

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How The Safe Lone Worker App Can Protect American Samoa Lone Workers And Employers

The Safe Lone Worker app offers valuable tools to employers in American Samoa who need to keep lone workers safe across land and sea. Features such as real-time location tracking, emergency alert systems, fall detection, and automated check-ins enable employers to maintain oversight and respond promptly to incidents.

This is particularly useful in industries such as fishing, logistics, and facility maintenance, where individuals often operate out of sight and beyond immediate assistance.

American Samoa Lone Worker Policies

As a U.S. territory without an OSHA-approved State Plan, American Samoa falls under the authority of federal OSHA, which provides and enforces occupational safety regulations. While OSHA does not maintain a specific regulation dedicated solely to lone workers, it does require that all recognized workplace hazards be managed, including those related to working in isolation.

Employers are strongly encouraged to consult OSHA’s official website and Region 9 office for the most accurate and up-to-date regulatory guidance. This article is intended for general informational purposes and does not substitute for legal or professional safety advice.